Judge steps down from Natasha’s case over allegations of bias

Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has recused himself from handling the case filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

During Tuesday’s court proceedings, Justice Egwuatu announced his decision to step down after the usual court appearances.

He explained that the decision was influenced by allegations of bias raised by the third defendant in the case, Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

A source revealed that Akpabio had expressed a lack of confidence in the court’s ability to fairly adjudicate the matter, which contributed to Justice Egwuatu’s decision.

The judge further stated that the case file would be handed over to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, for reassignment to another judge.

Earlier in the case, Justice Egwuatu had granted an ex-parte order, restraining the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from proceeding with disciplinary actions against Akpoti-Uduaghan. The senator had sought a court order to prevent the Senate and its ethics committee from continuing the “purported investigation” against her.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s dispute with Akpabio stems from a disagreement over seating arrangements, during which she accused him of sexual harassment and abuse of power. The Senate had suspended her for six months over allegations of misconduct.