The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has taken legal action against Senate President Godswill Akpabio for the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. This move follows an outcry over the “patently unlawful” suspension that SERAP argues violates the senator’s fundamental rights and deprives her constituents of representation.
In a recent press release by SERAP’s Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization announced the filing of a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The suit, numbered FHC/ABJ/CS/498/2025, seeks to overturn the six-month suspension imposed on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate. SERAP is demanding an “order of mandamus” to compel Akpabio to rescind the suspension, reinstate the senator, and restore all her legislative rights and privileges.
The suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stemmed from allegations of “speaking without permission” and refusing to accept her new seat in the chamber. This punitive action not only prevents her from participating in Senate activities but also withholds her salary and allowances. SERAP argues that punishing someone for expressing their views is unconstitutional, emphasizing that being a senator does not strip one of their fundamental human rights.
At the core of SERAP’s legal argument is the contention that the suspension violates the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights treaties. Quoting from the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, SERAP stresses the right of citizens to freely participate in government through elected representatives. By silencing Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the organization asserts that the Senate undermines the political participation of her constituents in Kogi Central Senatorial District.
Moreover, SERAP highlights the conflict between the Senate’s actions and constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of expression. The organization points to Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which safeguards the right to hold opinions, receive information, and express ideas without interference. By restricting Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s freedom of expression, SERAP argues that the Senate’s actions not only violate her rights but also impede Nigerians’ access to information and ideas.
The lawsuit filed by SERAP’s legal team, led by Kolawole Oluwadare and Mrs. Adelanke Aremo, underscores the broader implications of stifling lawmakers through disciplinary measures. In a democratic society, the right to political speech and expression should be protected, especially when directed towards government officials. The organization calls for a higher degree of tolerance and respect for freedom of speech, particularly in the realm of political discourse.
As the case unfolds, SERAP remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding human rights, defending freedom of expression, and ensuring accountability in governance. The outcome of this legal battle will not only impact the fate of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan but also set a precedent for safeguarding the rights of lawmakers to speak out without fear of reprisal. Stay tuned for further updates on this pivotal legal challenge.