Justice Obiora Egwuatu

Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has recused himself from the case filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central District.

During proceedings on Tuesday, Justice Egwuatu announced his withdrawal, citing allegations of bias from the third defendant, Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Akpabio had expressed a lack of confidence in the court’s ability to deliver justice impartially, leading to the judge’s decision to step aside.

As a result, the case file will now be returned to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, for reassignment to another judge.

Previously, Justice Egwuatu had issued an ex parte order restraining the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from conducting disciplinary proceedings against Akpoti-Uduaghan. She had sought the court’s intervention to halt an investigation initiated by the Senate against her.

The case stems from a dispute between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio over Senate seat arrangements, which escalated when she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office. Following the controversy, the Senate suspended her for six months, citing misconduct.

With Justice Egwuatu’s withdrawal, the case is set to take a new direction as it awaits reassignment.