The Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, has lifted the interim injunction that previously prevented the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from accepting petitions to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central.
Background of the Case
- On Thursday, the court granted an ex-parte order halting INEC from acting on the recall process.
- The request was filed by Anebe Ogirima and four other registered voters, represented by Smart Nwachimere of West-Idahosa SAN & Co.
- The applicants alleged that the recall petition contained fictitious signatures and asked the court to bar INEC from proceeding with the process until the case was fully heard.
Court’s Ruling on Friday
However, on Friday, the court vacated the order, stating that:
- Constituents have the civic right to recall any lawmaker.
- The recall process must be conducted orderly and peacefully.
- INEC can now proceed with receiving and acting on the petition.
The case has been adjourned to May 6 for further hearing.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension & Political Context
- The Kogi Central senator was suspended from the Senate on March 6 for alleged “gross misconduct” after an altercation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements.
- She had also previously accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, adding political tension to her recall process.
With the court’s latest ruling, the recall effort against Akpoti-Uduaghan may proceed unless further legal action is taken.
Leave a Reply