Justice Obiora Egwatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the case filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, to March 25, 2025.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had approached the court seeking an order to restrain the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges from investigating her.
Last week, the court granted the restraining order, but the Senate proceeded on Thursday to suspend the senator for six months following the committee’s report.
During Monday’s proceedings, counsel for the first, second, and third defendants informed the court that they had not been served with the necessary documents.
In response, Natasha’s counsel, Michael Numa (SAN), argued that all parties had been served, presenting affidavits of service as evidence.
After reviewing the affidavits, Justice Egwatu confirmed that all defendants had been properly served. Counsel for the third defendant, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Kehinde Ogunwumiju, requested an adjournment to harmonize all processes.
Other counsels supported the request, emphasizing that it would allow for an accelerated hearing at the next sitting.
Justice Egwatu then adjourned the case to March 25, 2025, directing that all necessary documents be served to the relevant parties before the next hearing.
Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Peter Nwaebonyi, who was present in court, underscored the importance of proper legal processes.
He stressed that serving all parties allows them to study the matter and respond appropriately.
Nwaebonyi also remarked that while the Senate respects the court as a law-abiding institution, it is unusual for the judiciary to interfere in legislative affairs.