Justice Obiora Egwuatu Recuses Self From Natasha Akpoti’s Case Against Godswill Akpabio

Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has stepped down from the case involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central District.

During Tuesday’s proceedings, Justice Obiora Egwuatu announced his decision to withdraw from the case, citing allegations of bias raised by the third defendant, Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Reports indicate that Akpabio had expressed doubts about the court’s ability to handle the case fairly, leading to Egwuatu’s recusal.

The judge stated that he would return the case file to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, for reassignment to another judge.

Justice Egwuatu had previously issued an ex-parte order preventing the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from taking disciplinary action against Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The senator had sought a court order to halt the committee’s investigation into her.

The dispute stems from a disagreement over Senate seating arrangements, during which Natasha Akpoti accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office.

The Senate later suspended her for six months, citing misconduct.

Meanwhile, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has dismissed reports claiming she apologized to the Senate over the events that led to her suspension.

[irp]