Ezekwesili Hails Court Ruling On Natasha, Says ‘This Injustice Will Not Be Sustained’

Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has applauded the judgment of the Abuja Federal High Court which nullified the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Nigerian Senate.

Ezekwesili described the ruling delivered by Justice Binta Fatima Nyako as a triumph over injustice and a strong reaffirmation of democratic principles. She called on the Senate to immediately correct what she termed a constitutional misstep.

Justice Nyako, in her decision earlier on Friday, declared Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension unconstitutional, ordering her prompt reinstatement to the Senate. The court held that the action of the Senate violated the 1999 Constitution and unjustly deprived the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District of proper representation.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in May after she accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, a claim that sparked national controversy.

Reacting to the court victory on her (formerly Twitter) handle, Ezekwesili celebrated Akpoti-Uduaghan’s resilience in the face of political intimidation.

“Distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, congratulations!” Ezekwesili wrote. “Today is a great day to remind all of us of your unforgettable words: ‘This injustice will not be sustained.’ Thank you for modeling the strength of will that citizens in a democracy must have to challenge abuse of power.”

She also praised the constituents of Kogi Central for their unwavering support, urging the Nigerian Senate to act swiftly in rectifying the injustice.

“You inspire,” Ezekwesili added, emphasizing that the ruling is not only a personal victory for Akpoti-Uduaghan but also a win for constitutional democracy and citizens’ rights.