‘Disobey At Your Peril’ – Natasha Akpoti’s Lawyer Warns Senate to Honour Recall Order or Face Contempt
🗓️ 17 July 2025
🖋️ Byline: IDNN Legal & Parliamentary Desk
Abuja, Nigeria – Legal representatives for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan have issued a stern warning to the Nigerian Senate, insisting that any attempt to flout a valid court order confirming her recall would constitute a direct violation of constitutional authority and expose the institution to contempt proceedings.
At a press conference held in Abuja, the lead counsel Barr. Jide Afolayan invoked Section 287 of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates that judgments of courts must be obeyed by all authorities and persons, regardless of status or office.
“The Senate has no discretion here. This is not politics. It is the law,” Afolayan declared.
“Failure to act in accordance with the ruling will attract the full weight of contempt sanctions.”
Background: Court Confirms Akpoti’s Mandate
The Federal High Court ruling last week ordered the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti as the duly elected senator for Kogi Central, following an electoral dispute that had initially declared her opponent, Abubakar Ohere, winner in the 2023 polls.
The ruling followed a series of tribunal decisions and appeals affirming her victory. However, the Senate has yet to formally swear her back in, raising concerns of institutional resistance.
“Delaying her return is an affront to the judiciary,” said Afolayan.
“No arm of government is above the Constitution.”
Senate’s Silence and Mounting Pressure
The Senate, under President Godswill Akpabio, has not officially responded to the latest court order.
But sources within the National Assembly say discussions are ongoing about the “political sensitivity” of the case, especially considering Akpoti’s alignment with reformist opposition circles.
Civil society groups and constitutional watchdogs have also warned that non-compliance could trigger public protests and judicial crisis.
“This is a litmus test for Nigeria’s democracy,” said Dr. Yemi Salako of the Rule of Law Coalition.
“The Senate must decide if it respects the judiciary — or undermines it.”
Akpoti Reacts: ‘I Will Return. It’s Not If, It’s When’
Senator Akpoti, who has maintained a relatively low profile during the court battle, broke her silence via X, stating:
“I won’t trade legality for silence. My people voted, and the courts agreed. I will return.”
Her reinstatement is being closely watched by political blocs in Kogi State, especially with the 2027 cycle looming.
GRAPHIC CAPTION
Senator Natasha Akpoti’s legal counsel warns Senate to honour court ruling or face contempt proceedings under Nigeria’s Constitution.
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