Former Minister of Education and Founder of the School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG), Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, has urged the Nigerian Senate to reverse its suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central and reinstate her without delay.
In a strongly worded statement addressed to the Senate, judiciary, and Nigerian citizens, Ezekwesili described the suspension as a violation of constitutional governance and the rule of law.
“The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is a covenant between government and the governed. Section 4 defines the limits of legislative power, while Section 14 enshrines the rule of law as the foundation of democracy. These are binding obligations, not suggestions,” she stated.
Ezekwesili warned that extending the suspension beyond its term could undermine public trust in democratic institutions. She stressed that the issue is not just about one lawmaker but about upholding the principles of representation and citizens’ rights.
“This case transcends one senator or constituency. If a duly elected senator can be silenced, it raises questions about the protection available to ordinary citizens,” she said, calling on Nigerians to demand accountability.
“To the Senate and Senators: Rescind your decision immediately. Recall Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan without delay. Demonstrate that Nigeria’s commitment to justice, constitutional governance, and the rule of law is substantive, not rhetorical,” Ezekwesili urged.
She further reminded citizens that democracy weakens whenever constitutional safeguards are ignored, warning that “every day without remedy chips away at democracy’s foundation.”
