Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has stepped down from Senator Natasha Akpoti’s case. The judge made this decision during a court hearing on Tuesday, citing allegations of bias from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who is the third defendant in the case.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central District, has accused Akpabio of sexual harassment in connection with a dispute over their seating arrangements in the Senate. This conflict has intensified, leading to serious accusations and a suspension from the Senate for six months due to alleged misconduct.
During the proceedings, Justice Egwuatu announced that he would withdraw from Senator Natasha Akpoti’s case to ensure fairness. He explained that Senate President Godswilll Akpabiohad expressed doubts about the court’s ability to handle the matter impartially, which contributed to his decision.
Read Also: NIMC Warns Against Indiscriminate Printing of NIN Cards
Following this announcement, Justice Egwuatu stated that the case file would be sent back to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, for reassignment to another judge.
In a related development, Justice Egwuatu had previously issued an order that prevented the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from moving forward with any disciplinary actions against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. She had requested this legal protection to stop what she described as a “purported investigation” against her related to the ongoing tensions with Akpabio.
Senator Natasha Akpoti’s case continues to draw attention as it involves serious allegations and raises important questions about conduct within the Senate. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s fight for justice highlights ongoing issues of sexual harassment and power dynamics in Nigerian politics.
