Falana Slams Senate Over Delay In Recalling Senator Natasha

Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana has criticised the Nigerian Senate for appealing a court decision that found the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan unconstitutional.

The legal expert said the Senate’s refusal to act on the court’s judgment has dragged the institution into public embarrassment.

The issue stems from a July 4, 2025 ruling by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, who declared that suspending Senator Natasha for six months was excessive and unlawful. The judge pointed out that such a lengthy suspension, within a legislative calendar of just 181 sitting days, effectively silenced the people of her constituency and weakened democratic representation.

Justice Nyako advised the Senate to recall the senator. However, the Senate responded that the court’s order did not explicitly direct an immediate recall, arguing that it was only a recommendation and therefore not binding. They then proceeded to file an appeal against the ruling at the Court of Appeal.

Falana disagrees with this interpretation. He said the Senate is legally bound to follow the court’s determination, whether it came in the form of an order or a recommendation. He pointed to Section 318 of the Constitution, which defines a “decision” to include judgments, orders, and recommendations of a court. In his view, this makes the court’s recommendation enforceable.

Citing legal precedents, Falana reminded the Senate that the Federal High Court’s decisions must be respected by all authorities under Section 287(3) of the Constitution. He argued that by ignoring the judgment and filing an appeal without a clear legal reason, the Senate is undermining the authority of the judiciary.

Falana questioned the logic of the appeal, asking why the Senate would challenge a recommendation that is based on constitutional principles. He warned that such actions not only delay justice but also bring unnecessary ridicule to a democratic institution that should be upholding the law.

The case has sparked widespread debate over the limits of legislative power and the role of the courts in protecting democratic rights. While the legal process continues, pressure is mounting on the Senate to respect the judgment and allow Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to resume her duties.