A group of constituents from Kogi central senatorial district have filed a lawsuit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the senate, challenging the suspension of their representative, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The applicants are Ovavu Iliyasu, Isah Otini, Onivehu Amoto, Isah Mediant, Ogunmola Samuel, Umar Oyiza, Megida Sadia, Siyaka Akinlade, Michael Ademola and Ananyi Omeiza.
In the lawsuit filed at Abuja federal high court, and marked FHC/ABJ/CS/654/2025, they argued that the senator’s suspension violates their constitutional right to political representation.
The applicants, represented by human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, said the March 6 suspension not only undermines democratic principles but also breaches Article 13(1) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantees citizens the right to participate freely in their government through elected representatives.
They said the senator’s suspension has effectively silenced the voice of Kogi central in national debates and lawmaking processes, adding that the house acted without lawful justification and overstepped its powers.
They are seeking a declaration that the senate lacks the authority to suspend Akpoti-Uduaghan by Article 13 (1) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act Cap A9 of the LFN 2004.
They also demand that Natasha’s suspension be nullified and her full rights and privileges be restored – including access to her office, participation in senate proceedings, and payment of outstanding entitlements.
They are also seeking an injunction restraining the respondents from carrying out any act that would contravene their fundamental rights.
The applicants are Ovavu Iliyasu, Isah Otini, Onivehu Amoto, Isah Mediant, Ogunmola Samuel, Umar Oyiza, Megida Sadia, Siyaka Akinlade, Michael Ademola and Ananyi Omeiza.
