Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has stepped down from a case brought by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central District. The judge made his announcement during Tuesday’s court session, following routine appearances, citing allegations of bias as his primary reason for withdrawing.

The decision stems from concerns raised by the third defendant, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who reportedly questioned the court’s impartiality in handling the case. Sources indicate that Akpabio’s lack of trust in the court’s ability to deliver a fair ruling prompted Justice Egwuatu’s recusal. The judge stated that the case file would be sent back to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, for reassignment to another judge.

Prior to his recusal, Justice Egwuatu had issued an ex-parte order preventing the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from pursuing disciplinary actions against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. The senator had sought the court’s intervention to halt what she described as an “alleged investigation” by the Senate and its ethics committee. The legal battle follows a dispute with Senate President Akpabio over seat arrangements, during which Akpoti-Uduaghan accused him of sexual harassment and misuse of power. In response, the Senate imposed a six-month suspension on her for misconduct.

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