Akpabio Approaches Supreme Court Over Akpoti-Uduaghan Suspension

Weeks after withdrawing all defamation cases linked to a New Year homily, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has approached the Supreme Court to challenge Court of Appeal rulings arising from the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Akpabio is seeking leave to appeal, an extension of time, and recognition of his notice of appeal and brief of argument as properly filed. He argued that the appeal raises important constitutional and procedural questions and stressed that the Senate acted within its powers, urging the court to prioritise substantive justice over procedural technicalities.

The fresh move comes after the Court of Appeal described Akpabio’s earlier brief as defective and upheld that the six-month suspension was excessive. Akpabio’s legal team contends that strict adherence to procedural rules should not override constitutional imperatives and fair hearing rights. The Supreme Court has now been formally served, setting the stage for the apex court to examine the matter.

Written by Adeyemi Adewale