Chief Judge Reassigns Natasha vs. Akpabio Case to Justice Binta Nyako

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has officially reassigned the lawsuit filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other defendants to Justice Binta Nyako. Initially presided over by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, the case will now proceed under Justice Nyako’s jurisdiction, with the next hearing slated for April 11, 2025……….READ MORE

The case, brought forward by the suspended senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, challenges the Senate’s investigation into her alleged misconduct during a plenary session on February 20, 2025. It specifically seeks to halt the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from pursuing disciplinary measures.

Justice Egwuatu, who previously handled the matter, stepped down on March 25, 2025, after Senate President Akpabio raised concerns of potential bias. Citing the importance of impartiality, Justice Egwuatu remarked that perceived bias could compromise justice, prompting his withdrawal from the case.

Prior to recusing himself, Justice Egwuatu had issued a ruling on March 4, 2025, granting five reliefs in favor of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, including an order nullifying the Senate’s suspension of her. However, the order was vacated on March 19, 2025, following a motion from the Senate, which argued that the order infringed on the Senate’s constitutional responsibilities and could potentially spark a constitutional crisis.

In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lead counsel, Michael Numa, SAN, contended that the Senate’s motion demonstrated contempt for the court’s authority and urged that the original orders be upheld. Justice Nyako will now address the case’s next phase.