The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio over the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling it unconstitutional and an attack on free speech.
SERAP argues that the six-month suspension, salary freeze, and restrictions imposed on Akpoti-Uduaghan were solely due to her exercising her right to freedom of expression in the Senate.
The group seeks a court order compelling Akpabio to reinstate her and restore all her legislative rights.
SERAP also demands a perpetual injunction preventing the Senate from suspending members for peacefully expressing their views.
Citing the 1999 Constitution and international human rights laws, the group insists that the action violates democratic principles and deprives Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituents of their right to representation.
The case, filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja, has yet to be assigned a hearing date.