Justice Obiora Egwatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the suit filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges to March 25, 2025.
The Kogi Central senator had sought an order restraining the committee from investigating her. Last week, the court granted her request, but the Senate proceeded to suspend her for six months on Thursday after reviewing the committee’s report.
During proceedings on Monday, March 10, lawyers for the first, second, and third defendants claimed they had not been served court papers. However, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s counsel, Michael Numa (SAN), insisted that all parties had been served, presenting affidavits as evidence.
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After reviewing the documents, Justice Egwatu confirmed service on all defendants. The Senate President’s lawyer, Kehinde Ogunwumiju, then requested an adjournment to allow time for harmonising legal processes. Other defence counsels supported the move, saying it would ensure a smoother hearing.
Granting the request, Justice Egwatu adjourned the case to March 25 and ordered that all relevant legal documents be served before the next hearing.
Senate Deputy Chief Whip Peter Nwaebonyi, who was present in court, stressed the importance of proper legal service, stating that all parties needed time to review the case before responding.
He also remarked that it was unusual for the court to interfere in Senate affairs, adding, “The Senate only answered the call of the court for being a responsible and law-abiding institution.”