The Federal High Court in Lokoja has temporarily stopped the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from processing any petition to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. This ruling comes amid a heated political battle, with some constituents pushing for her removal, citing what they call an “international embarrassment.”
The court’s decision follows an ex-parte application for an interim injunction, filed by Anebe Jacob Ogirima and four others, all registered voters in Kogi Central Senatorial District. The application was moved by Smart Nwachimere of West-Idahosa, SAN & Co.
Court Order Blocks INEC From Acting on Recall Petition
The ruling, delivered on Thursday, restrains INEC, its staff, agents, or assigns from acting on any petition seeking to recall Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The court made it clear that any petition containing fictitious signatures or names cannot be accepted or acted upon until the motion is fully determined.
The order reads:
“That an interim injunction is granted restraining the defendant, staff, agents, privies, or assigns from receiving, accepting, or acting in any way whatsoever on any purported petitions submitted to the defendant by any person or persons whatsoever, containing fictitious signatures and names of purported members of the said district and conducting any referendum to initiate a recall process of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as senator pending the determination of the motion.”
The case has been adjourned to May 6, 2025, for a report of service and further mention.
Is This a Temporary Win for Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan?
While this court order temporarily halts her recall, the battle is far from over. Her opponents remain determined, and there’s no telling how the court will rule when the motion is fully heard.
Some observers believe this recall attempt is politically motivated, while others argue that her actions warrant accountability from her constituents. The court’s final decision on May 6, 2025, could determine whether Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan retains her seat or faces a full-blown recall process.
Due to the court stopping her recall, she has bought some time, but how long will it last?
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