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Akpabio Fights Back: Appeals Court Order Recalling Natasha

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on July 15th, 2025.

Senator Natasha, who represents Kogi Central under the banner of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was declared validly elected by the appeal court in a ruling that nullified earlier objections to her victory. However, the judgment did not sit well with Senate President Akpabio, a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), who has now moved to contest the court’s directive.

The Heart of the Dispute

The controversy stems from the decision by the appellate court to overrule a lower tribunal’s judgment, effectively reinstating Natasha as a serving senator. Akpabio, citing procedural irregularities and constitutional concerns, argues that the judiciary may have overstepped its bounds in directing the legislative arm on matters relating to its internal operations.

According to sources close to the Senate President, Akpabio believes that such a ruling sets a dangerous precedent and could open the door to judicial overreach. His legal team has reportedly filed a motion for a stay of execution, seeking to halt the immediate implementation of the court’s order until the matter is conclusively resolved by the Supreme Court.

Political Undertones

Analysts believe that Akpabio’s move may not be purely legal but also deeply political. Senator Natasha, a vocal opposition figure, has been critical of the APC-led government and its policies. Her return to the Senate could shift certain dynamics in the upper chamber, especially on issues where the ruling party lacks a strong consensus.

While the PDP has hailed the judgment as a victory for democracy and the rule of law, APC loyalists argue that the judiciary must tread carefully in matters that touch on the separation of powers.

Legal Experts Weigh In

Legal experts are divided on the issue. Some argue that the courts have every right to determine the legitimacy of electoral victories, while others warn that court-ordered recalls could blur the lines between the judicial and legislative arms of government.

Barrister Sani Abdullahi, a constitutional lawyer, noted, “While the judiciary has the power to interpret the law, it must be cautious not to intrude into the operational domain of the legislature. There’s a difference between invalidating an election and ordering the Senate to act in a particular way.”

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