Natasha’s suspension: Senate holds fire, seeks full court judgement

The Senate on Sunday acknowledged the court judgement on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan but noted it was yet to receive the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, made this known  in Abuja.

He explained that the CTC was necessary for a thorough review and informed determination of the next course of action.

“The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria acknowledges that judgement was delivered on July 4th by the Federal High Court, Abuja, in the suit instituted by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

However, the Senate is yet to be served with the certified true copy (CTC) of the said judgment.

“Our legal representatives, who were in attendance at the proceedings, confirmed that the complete judgement was not read in open court.

Consequently, we have formally applied for the CTC to enable a thorough review and informed determination of the appropriate legal response, particularly in view of the uncertainty surrounding whether the court made any direct order nullifying the suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.

“Since no party to the case has been officially served the enrolled order of the judgment, none can enforce any perceived order or relief.

“Pending receipt and examination of the CTC, and acting on the advice of counsel, the Senate shall refrain from taking any step that may prejudice its legal position,” he said.

Adaramodu emphasised the Senate’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, stressing that it would act strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria upon full clarification of the court’s pronouncements.

He urged the public to remain patient, assuring that the Senate would adhere to due process as it awaits the CTC of the court ruling to determine its next course of action.