A Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, has allowed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to continue the recall process of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Earlier, the court stopped INEC from acting on the petition submitted by her constituents. Now, it has reversed that decision, giving the commission the green light to move forward.
Residents of Kogi Central Senatorial District started the recall effort by filing a petition with INEC. They demanded the removal of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from the National Assembly. Initially, the court blocked the process and halted further action. However, the recent ruling lifted the restriction, allowing the electoral body to verify the petition and take the necessary steps.
The court’s ruling affirms the constitutional right of voters to hold their representatives accountable. It also reinforces the democratic principle that elected officials must answer to their constituents. This decision highlights the importance of public participation in governance.
INEC will now begin verifying the petition by checking the signatures. If it meets the required criteria, the commission will conduct a referendum in the Kogi Central Senatorial District. The recall will only succeed if most registered voters support it.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has not yet commented on the court’s decision. Recently, the Senate suspended her for six months due to allegations of misconduct. She challenged the suspension in court, and the hearing is set for March 25, 2025.
The court’s decision to resume the recall process shows how essential public involvement is in democratic governance. It also reflects the judiciary’s role in protecting citizens’ rights and holding leaders accountable.
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