Human rights activist and lawyer Inibehe Effiong has strongly criticised the Nigerian Senate for its decision to prevent Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming her duties despite having completed her six-month suspension.
The Senate had formally communicated to the Senator representing Kogi Central that she was not yet permitted to return to office, a move that has sparked significant controversy and legal scrutiny.
Inibehe Effiong expressed his vehement disapproval during an appearance on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’ program on Tuesday. He described the Senate’s official letter as embarrassing, scandalous, and deeply contemptuous, arguing that it disrespects both the rule of law and the Nigerian people.
The lawyer emphasised that once a Senator has fully served a lawfully imposed suspension, there is no legal or moral justification for further preventing their return to legislative duties.
He further reinforced his position by referencing established legal principles, noting that Nigerian courts have consistently ruled that parliamentary bodies cannot indefinitely suspend their members.
This stance, he explained, is fundamental to maintaining democratic integrity and ensuring that elected representatives can fulfil the mandates given to them by their constituents.
Inibehe Effiong’s comments highlight a growing tension between legislative authority and judicial oversight, raising important questions about the limits of parliamentary power and the protection of democratic rights within Nigeria’s political system. The situation continues to develop as legal and political experts weigh in on the constitutional implications of the Senate’s action.
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cc: Daily Post NG
