Nigerian Senate President Godswill Akpabio faces the risk of imprisonment for allegedly defying a court order, as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has initiated contempt proceedings against him and other Senate officials.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was recently suspended from the Senate for six months, has filed a contempt charge at the Federal High Court in Abuja against Akpabio, the Clerk of the National Assembly, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct, Senator Neda Imasuen.
In Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025, she argues that the Senate’s decision to suspend her despite an existing court order is a clear violation of judicial authority. Justice Obiora Egwuatu had issued an ex-parte order on March 4, restraining the Senate from proceeding with disciplinary actions against Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The court had ruled that any action taken while the case was pending would be null and void. However, the Senate went ahead with her suspension, ordered the sealing of her office, and directed her to hand over all Senate property in her possession.
In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team filed a Form 48 notice, warning Akpabio and others of the legal consequences of defying a court directive. The notice, issued under Section 72 of the Sheriff and Civil Process Act, 2004, states that continued defiance could result in imprisonment.
“Despite being duly served with the enrolled order on March 5, 2025, the Defendants/Contemnors have deliberately disregarded its binding directive,” the notice read.
