The Senate does not yet receive the sentence of the CTC court while Natasha Vows returns Tuesday – Thage

By Victor Osula, Abuja

The Senate said that he has not yet received the real certified copy (CTC) of the sentence that canceled the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Usaghan, representing Kogi Central, and ordered his immediate reinstatement.

The High Federal Court of Abuja, chaired by judge Binta Nyako, canceled the suspension of six months of the law of the legislator on Friday, describing it as “excessive, unconstitutional and a violation of the rights of its members”.

Akpoti-Auduaghan was suspended for alleged bad conduct and violation of the rules of the Senate. His suspension included the withdrawal of salary and rights, revocation of access to the National Assembly and a directive to give identification as a senator.

By giving judgment, judge Nyako established that the suspension, which actually excluded it from the chamber for six months, was not only excessive, but also equivalent to a denial of the representation for its components. The judge also declared that chapter 8 of the permanent rules of the Senate and section 14 of the legislative law (powers and privileges) invoked for his suspension were “exaggerated” and incompatible with the constitutional provisions.

In his official reaction on Sunday, the Senate, through his spokesperson and president, a media committee and public affairs, Senator Yemi Adramod, confirmed that although he was aware of the judgment, he had not yet been taken for granted with the CTC.

“The Senate recognizes that the sentence was issued on July 4 by the Federal Court, Abuja, in the case established by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Usaghan. However, we still have to be notified with the real certified copy of said judgment”, reads the note.

“Our legal representatives, who were present in court, confirmed that the complete judgment was not read in the open court. The Senate requested the CTC to allow a complete review and determine the appropriate legal response,” he added.

Adramod observed that it was not unclear if the Court issued an executive order that canceled the suspension, underlining that no part had served the Senate with an enrolled order.

“Until we receive and examine the official CTC, the Senate abstains from any action that can prejudice its legal position. We remain committed to supporting the rule of law and we will act in accordance with the establishment once the Court’s decision is clear,” he said.

Meanwhile, Senator Akpoti-Usuaghan has promised to resume the plenary on Tuesday 8 July, as a challenge to the Senate’s position.

In a video game shared on social media, the Senator Merlato thanked his supporters for their unshakable support and described the court sentence as a reference victory for democracy.

“I am grateful for your constant support. I am happy that today we are victorious. As a grace of God, I will resume in the Senate Tuesday,” he told supporters.

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