By John Alechenu

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has described the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate as travesty of justice.

National Secretary of the CUPP, Chief Peter Ameh, said this in Abuja, on Friday.

He noted that the Senate’s action taken during its plenary has raised serious questions about fairness, legality, and the integrity of the legislative body.

Ameh said, “The events unfolded when Senator Godswill Akpabio, the accused in a petition brought by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, took the extraordinary step of overseeing a Senate session that resulted in her suspension.

“This action, devoid of a fair hearing, not only undermines Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s fundamental right to be heard but also casts a shadow over the Senate’s commitment to justice and due process.

“At the heart of this matter is a glaring procedural flaw: there was no fair hearing. A fair hearing is a cornerstone of justice, ensuring that all parties are given an equal opportunity to present their case before an impartial arbiter. In this instance, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the accuser, was denied that right.

“Instead, the accused, Senator Godswill Akpabio, presided over the session that sealed her fate. This is a textbook violation of natural justice, which demands that no one should be a judge in their own cause.

“The accused and the accuser should have been brought before a neutral and impartial panel to adjudicate the matter, ensuring transparency and fairness.

“Senator Godswill Akpabio’s failure to recuse himself from the proceedings reeks of bias and undermines the principle of presumed innocence, which he, as a public official, is entitled to but should not exploit to his advantage.

“Former Senate President Bukola Saraki’s approach in similar situations offers a valuable lesson. Saraki, when faced with contentious issues, often emphasized the importance of stepping aside to allow for an unbiased process.




https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/03/akpoti-uduaghans-suspension-travesty-of-justice-cupp/