Senator Natasha,
Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has withdrawn from the case filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central District.
During Tuesday’s proceedings, Justice Egwuatu announced his decision to recuse himself, citing allegations of bias raised by the third defendant in the case, Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Explaining his decision, the judge stated, “The case file will be returned to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, for reassignment to another judge.”
Reports indicate that Senate President Akpabio had expressed doubts about the court’s ability to handle the matter fairly, leading to the latest development.
Justice Egwuatu had previously issued an ex-parte order preventing the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from taking disciplinary action against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
She had approached the court seeking an injunction to stop the Senate and its ethics committee from “proceeding with the purported investigation” against her.
The controversy stems from a dispute over seat arrangements in the Senate, during which Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office.
Following the incident, the Senate suspended her for six months, citing misconduct.
