In a significant legal development, the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal has struck out two motions filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio in a case involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The court also imposed a ₦100,000 cost against Akpabio in favor of Akpoti-Uduaghan. The ruling, delivered on May 21, 2025, followed Akpabio’s application to withdraw the motions.
Background of the Case
The legal battle between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan began after a confrontation during a Senate plenary session on February 20, 2025. Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that Akpabio sexually harassed her during a dispute over seating arrangements. Subsequently, she filed a defamation lawsuit against Akpabio and his aide, Mfon Patrick, seeking ₦100 billion in damages. The suit alleges that defamatory statements were made about her on social media, damaging her reputation and dignity.
In response, Akpabio filed two motions at the Court of Appeal, seeking to extend the time to file an appeal, obtain leave to appeal against a Federal High Court decision, and stay proceedings in the original suit. The motions were marked CV/395/M1/2025 and CV/395/M2/2025. However, on May 21, 2025, the Court of Appeal granted Akpabio’s request to withdraw the motions and imposed a ₦100,000 cost against him.
Legal Implications
The Court of Appeal’s decision underscores the importance of adhering to legal procedures and respecting court orders. Akpabio’s withdrawal of the motions and the imposition of a cost against him may be seen as a response to criticisms of the Senate’s handling of the situation. Earlier, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, West Idahosa, had faulted the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate, despite a court order restraining such action.
This development may also influence the ongoing defamation lawsuit filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan, as it reflects the judiciary’s stance on procedural fairness and the rule of law.
Conclusion
The Court of Appeal’s ruling marks a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. It highlights the judiciary’s commitment to upholding legal standards and ensuring accountability in public office. As the defamation lawsuit progresses, the outcomes of these legal battles may have broader implications for the conduct of lawmakers and the protection of individual rights within Nigeria’s legislative framework.
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