Court Halts Recall Bid Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

The Federal High Court in Lokoja has issued an interim injunction stopping the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from accepting or processing petitions aimed at recalling Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The decision comes amid a growing movement to unseat the senator, with various groups in Kogi Central amplifying their support for the recall effort. However, an Ebira group has countered claims that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s political opponents are bankrolling the campaign.

On Thursday, the court restrained INEC officials, agents, and associates from processing any recall petitions that include forged signatures of Kogi Central constituents or conducting any referendum until the court decides on the motion on notice.

The injunction, granted after an ex-parte application filed by Anebe Jacob Ogirima and four other registered voters from the senatorial district, signals a significant legal hurdle for recall proponents. The application was presented by Smart Nwachimere, Esq., of West-Idahosa, SAN & Co., with the case set for further mention on May 6, 2025.

The Action Collective, a pressure group, hailed the court’s ruling, describing it as a victory against what they called the “impunity” of those allegedly orchestrating the recall.

Dr. Onimisi Ibrahim, the group’s coordinator, expressed confidence that the order would unveil the “devious agenda” of those behind the recall push.