Reverse Natasha’s suspension or face legal action, SERAP warns Akpabio

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a strong warning to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, demanding the immediate reversal of the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The organization has threatened legal action should the suspension not be lifted, citing constitutional violations and the suppression of democratic rights.

SERAP’s Legal Argument

SERAP argues that the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan contravenes the fundamental principles of democracy, the rule of law, and the constitutional rights of representation. According to the organization, the action taken by the Senate is unconstitutional and violates Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to freedom of expression. Additionally, it points to international legal frameworks, such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which uphold the right to political participation without undue interference.

The group insists that suspending an elected representative deprives constituents of their voice in the legislative process, undermining democracy. It also accuses the Senate of using suspensions as a tool for political suppression rather than upholding legislative discipline.

Demands and Possible Legal Action

In a letter addressed to Senate President Akpabio, SERAP demanded that Senator Natasha’s suspension be revoked immediately. The organization warned that failure to comply would result in legal action to challenge the decision in court. It further urged the Senate to adopt reforms that prevent arbitrary suspensions of lawmakers, emphasizing that disciplinary actions must follow due process and fair hearing principles.

SERAP also called on the judiciary and civil society organizations to take a stand against what it described as an abuse of legislative power. The group reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that elected officials are not unfairly silenced and that democratic institutions remain accountable to the Nigerian people.

Reactions and Political Implications

The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has sparked significant political controversy, with various rights groups and opposition figures condemning the decision. Many argue that the move was politically motivated and aimed at stifling dissent within the Senate. Some lawmakers within the opposition parties have also expressed concerns that such actions set a dangerous precedent for legislative governance in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, political analysts warn that the controversy could escalate into a protracted legal battle, further straining relations within the National Assembly. If SERAP proceeds with its lawsuit, the case could serve as a landmark ruling on the limits of legislative power in suspending elected representatives.

As public pressure mounts, all eyes are on the Senate leadership and whether it will reconsider its stance or face the legal consequences threatened by SERAP.