The Court of Appeal in Abuja has affirmed the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Nigerian Senate. The appellate court dismissed her appeal challenging the six-month suspension imposed by the Senate in March 2025.

In a unanimous judgment delivered on February 7, 2026, a three-man panel led by Justice Haruna Tsammani held that the Senate acted within its constitutional powers under Section 68 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Senate Standing Orders. The court ruled that the upper chamber has the authority to discipline its members for misconduct without external interference, provided due process is followed.

The justices found no merit in Natasha's arguments that her suspension violated her fundamental rights or that the Senate lacked jurisdiction. They upheld the lower court's decision, describing the suspension as lawful and proportionate to the allegations of gross misconduct and breach of privilege.

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, was suspended after a series of controversies involving her allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other leadership matters. The Senate cited repeated breaches of rules, including unauthorised disclosures and disruptive conduct during plenary sessions.

The lawmaker had approached the appellate court seeking to nullify the suspension, arguing it was politically motivated and denied her constituents representation. However, the court rejected these claims, stating the Senate's internal disciplinary processes were properly exercised.

With this ruling, Natasha remains barred from participating in Senate activities until the expiration of the six-month period or further order. The decision reinforces the autonomy of legislative bodies in managing their affairs while emphasising adherence to constitutional provisions on legislative privileges.

The case has drawn significant public attention, with supporters of the senator describing it as a setback for free speech in the National Assembly, while others view it as necessary to maintain order and decorum in the upper chamber.