Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday ahead of the hearing regarding the claim by Senate President Godswill Akpabio that she recently violated a court order.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Justice Binta Nyako had scheduled today for the hearing of the contempt claim filed by the Senate President against Akpoti-Uduaghan. Justice Nyako also indicated she would hear a previous contempt charge filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan against Akpabio, the Senate, and others, accusing them of disobeying an earlier court order.
The legal dispute between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan began in February, following a dramatic disagreement over seating arrangements during a Senate plenary. Shortly after, Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment during an appearance on a television program.
In response, the senator representing Kogi Central filed a case in the Federal High Court seeking an order to prevent the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from investigating her.
Following an ex parte application, the court issued an order on March 4 restraining the Senate from initiating any disciplinary proceedings against her. However, on March 6, the Senate proceeded with her suspension, citing a committee report that alleged gross misconduct.
