March 21, (THEWILL) – A Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja, Kogi State, has restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its agents from receiving, accepting, or acting on any petition allegedly containing fictitious signatures for the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
THEWILL recalls that controversy erupted during Senate plenary on February 20 following a dispute over seating arrangements, which led to a heated exchange between Senator Natasha and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The Kogi lawmaker had accused Akpabio of persistent sexual advances, claiming that his hostility towards her stemmed from her refusal to entertain them.
The senator was subsequently suspended for six months over allegations of misconduct and violation of Senate rules. Her suspension also included the withdrawal of her salary, security details, and a ban on accessing the National Assembly premises or identifying herself as a senator.
Amid reports of a plot to recall her, concerns were raised over the credibility of the process, which was allegedly orchestrated by a close ally of Senate President Akpabio.
In an attempt to block the recall, five registered voters from Kogi Central Senatorial District, including Anebe Jacob Ogirima, filed an ex parte application before the Federal High Court in Lokoja, seeking an order to prevent INEC from acting on the purported recall petition.
Ruling on the application on Thursday, Justice Isa H. Dashen issued an interim injunction restraining INEC, its staff, and agents from receiving or acting on any petition containing fictitious signatures and names of purported constituents.
“The order also restrains INEC from conducting any referendum upon such a petition for the purpose of initiating a recall process of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, pending the determination of the Motion on Notice,” the court ruled.
The case was adjourned until May 6, 2025, for a report on service and further proceedings.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
