In a dramatic turn of events at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Justice Obiora Egwuatu has opted to recuse himself from the high-profile case filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central District.
The decision came after Justice Egwuatu, during court proceedings on Tuesday, announced his withdrawal following allegations of bias by the third defendant in the case, Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The case, which has captured the attention of many, revolves around a dispute between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio. The Senator had accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office, leading to a highly contentious row over seating arrangements in the Senate.
In retaliation, the Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, further intensifying the already heated political battle.
Justice Egwuatu explained that Akpabio’s public expression of doubt regarding the court’s impartiality was the key reason behind his decision to step aside.
The Senate President had earlier questioned the court’s ability to fairly adjudicate the matter, a sentiment that led to the judge’s move to avoid any perceived conflict of interest.
Following the judge’s withdrawal, the case file is set to be handed over to Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, for reassignment to another judge. This marks another twist in what has already become a highly charged legal and political drama.
Notably, Justice Egwuatu had previously granted an ex-parte order preventing the Senate’s Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from proceeding with disciplinary actions against Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The Senator had sought the court’s intervention, requesting it to halt the Senate’s investigation into her conduct.
With the case now in limbo, all eyes are on how the next chapter will unfold. Will another judge be able to navigate the complexities of this explosive case, or will the political forces continue to influence the legal proceedings? Time will tell.
