The Federal High Court in Abuja has barred Senate President Godswill Akpabio and suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, from making public comments or granting interviews about the legal dispute over her suspension from the Senate.
Justice Binta Nyako issued the gag order on Friday during a resumed hearing of the suit filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is challenging her six-month suspension by the Senate under Akpabio’s leadership.
The order followed complaints by Akpabio’s counsel, Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), who told the court that Akpoti-Uduaghan had made several television appearances discussing the case, which he described as sub judice and disrespectful to the court.
Justice Nyako also directed all parties and their legal teams to refrain from streaming court proceedings or sharing updates on social media. The case was adjourned to May 12 for further hearing.
The case was initially assigned to Justice Obiora Egwuatu, who recused himself on March 25 after Akpabio accused him of bias. Before stepping down, Justice Egwuatu had issued an interim order halting the Senate’s disciplinary proceedings against Akpoti-Uduaghan and instructed that the status quo be maintained.
Despite the order, the Senate proceeded with the disciplinary action, culminating in Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension. Akpabio has since questioned the judiciary’s authority to interfere in Senate matters.
Justice Egwuatu had also granted permission for substituted service of court documents on the defendants and gave the Senate 72 hours to justify why further action should not be restrained.
The legal battle continues as the court now seeks to maintain neutrality and prevent media influence on the proceedings.
