Recall Natasha without delay, Falana warns senate

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has warned the Nigerian Senate to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan without delay, following a court ruling declaring her six-month suspension unconstitutional and excessive.

Justice Binta Nyako’s July 4 judgment criticised the suspension, saying it stripped a constituency of its voice and undermined democracy.

Falana condemned the Senate’s refusal to reinstate Natasha, calling it “brazen contempt.” He argued that the court’s decision, including its recommendation for her recall, is binding under Nigerian law.

READ ALSO: Senate removes Natasha as diaspora committee chairman

Citing Section 318 of the Constitution and relevant case law, Falana emphasized that the Senate must obey the court’s decision.

“The Senate’s appeal is unwarranted and ridiculous,” Falana said, questioning the legal basis for challenging a decision the Senate claims is not binding.

He urged the Senate to comply with the court’s ruling, warning that ignoring it would bring disrepute upon the institution.

READ ALSO: Court orders immediate recall of suspended senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Falana invoked Section 287(3) of the Constitution, which mandates enforcement of Federal High Court decisions across the Federation.

“There can be no justification for treating the valid decision of the Federal High Court with disdain,” he said.

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