The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to reverse the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The group described the suspension as unlawful, arguing that it violates her fundamental right to freedom of expression.
SERAP warned that failure to lift the suspension within 48 hours would lead to legal action against Akpabio and the Senate.
Background of the Suspension
Last week, the Senate suspended Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months. Reports indicated that she was penalized for speaking without permission and refusing to sit in her assigned seat in the upper legislative chamber. As a result, she will not receive her salary and allowances during the suspension period, and she is barred from identifying as a senator.
SERAP, a prominent rights group, condemned the decision, saying that the Senate’s action contradicts democratic values and constitutional rights. The organization argues that senators should not be punished for expressing their views, especially on matters affecting their constituents.
In an open letter dated March 8, 2025, and signed by its deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP insisted that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension undermines the principles of free speech and political participation.
SERAP’s Legal Argument
SERAP stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension is a direct attack on free speech and sets a dangerous precedent for legislative democracy in Nigeria. The group emphasized that being a senator does not strip Akpoti-Uduaghan of her fundamental human rights.
“The Senate should be setting an example by protecting the rule of law, not violating it,” the group stated. “Punishing a senator for peacefully expressing herself is unlawful, unnecessary, and excessive. This action will discourage other lawmakers from freely expressing their views.”
According to SERAP, the Senate’s reasons for suspending Akpoti-Uduaghan appear to be an excuse to silence her and restrict her rights.
Demands to the Senate
SERAP has given the Senate a 48-hour deadline to reverse the suspension. If the demand is ignored, the organization will take legal action to challenge the decision in court.
“Any application of the Senate Standing Orders must align with constitutional and international human rights standards,” SERAP stated. “Suspending Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for exercising her right to free speech has effectively silenced her representation in the Senate.”
The group also stressed that political speech should be protected, even more so when directed at government officials. “A higher degree of tolerance is expected in political debates. Lawmakers should not face punishment for voicing their opinions.”
SERAP warned that the suspension also affects the right of the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District to be represented in the Senate. “This action denies voters the right to participate in governance through their elected representative,” the group noted.
Legal Basis for SERAP’s Position
SERAP cited several legal provisions that support its argument. The Nigerian Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights all guarantee freedom of expression and political participation.
Relevant Constitutional Provisions
Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution states that every person is entitled to freedom of expression, including the right to hold opinions and share information without interference.
Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights affirms that individuals have the right to receive and share information and opinions freely.
Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantees the right to freedom of expression, including the ability to seek, receive, and share information.
Article 13 of the African Charter recognizes the right of citizens to participate in their government, either directly or through freely chosen representatives.
SERAP argued that suspending a senator for expressing an opinion violates these provisions and threatens democratic governance.
Details of the Allegations Against Akpoti-Uduaghan
Reports indicate that Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for violating Senate Rules 6.1 and 6.2. The Senate accused her of repeated misconduct, disregarding parliamentary decorum, and openly defying the presiding officer.
Specifically, she was alleged to have spoken without recognition and refused to take her assigned seat during plenary on February 25, 2025. The Senate viewed these actions as acts of indiscipline.
However, SERAP argues that these claims are insufficient to justify a suspension. The organization insists that freedom of expression must be upheld, even in legislative chambers.
Reactions from Legal Experts and Civil Society
Legal experts and civil society groups have joined SERAP in condemning the suspension. Many argue that the Senate’s action is an attempt to stifle opposition voices and limit democratic debate.
A legal analyst, Barrister Eze Nwosu, described the suspension as “a clear abuse of legislative powers.” He noted that parliamentary rules should not override constitutional rights.
“Senators are elected to speak on behalf of their constituents. Silencing them because they challenge authority is undemocratic,” Nwosu stated.
Similarly, human rights activist Aisha Mohammed said that the suspension sends a dangerous message. “If lawmakers can be suspended for expressing their views, what hope do ordinary Nigerians have for free speech?” she asked.
Public Outcry and Calls for Justice
The suspension has sparked public outrage, with many Nigerians taking to social media to express their disapproval.
A trending hashtag, #ReinstateNatasha, has emerged as citizens demand her immediate reinstatement. Many argue that the Senate should focus on pressing national issues rather than silencing its members.
One Twitter user wrote, “This is an attack on democracy. We voted for her, and she should be allowed to speak for us.”
Another commentator added, “If the Senate can suspend a lawmaker for expressing herself, imagine what they can do to ordinary Nigerians.”
What Happens Next?
With the 48-hour deadline given by SERAP, all eyes are on the Senate leadership. If the suspension is not reversed, a legal battle could unfold in the courts.
SERAP has a history of challenging government actions in court. In previous cases, the organization has successfully pushed for transparency and accountability in governance.
If the matter proceeds to court, legal experts predict that the case could set a precedent for protecting freedom of speech in Nigeria’s legislature.
