Barrister Olalekan Festus Ojo, a human rights lawyer, has said that the recent return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Senate is a strong reaffirmation of the central role of the judiciary in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking exclusively with Sunday Independent, Barrister Ojo, Managing Partner, Platinum & Taylor Hill LP, a leading law firm in Nigeria, said that Akpoti-Uduaghan return demonstrates that, regardless of political affiliations, the courts remain the ultimate arbiters in electoral disputes and that their pronouncements must be respected.
Ojo, an advocate of good governance, stressed: “Beyond her personal triumph, it represents a victory for the people of her constituency, who deserve representation in the Senate, and for the rule of law, which must always stand above political maneuvering.”
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On the earlier refusal by the Clerk of the Senate to allow the Kogi Central Senator to resume office due to some pending cases, Ojo stated: “With due respect, the Clerk’s initial refusal was not tenable.”
He maintained that once a competent court delivers judgment, that decision is binding and must be obeyed unless and until it is stayed or overturned by a higher court.
According to him, “The existence of other pending suits or appeals does not invalidate or suspend a subsisting judgment.
“His stance, though perhaps influenced by caution or external pressures, underscores the importance of public officers adhering strictly to constitutional principles rather than speculative arguments.”
On whether the Senators will allow her to sit in the Chamber without hindrance when they resume, Ojo, the human rights advocate, stressed: “I believe the Senate, as an institution of law and order, will ultimately uphold judicial authority and allow her to take her rightful seat.
“While there may be political undercurrents, Senators are also conscious of the fact that disregarding a valid court judgment would undermine the credibility of the legislature itself.
“The principle of separation of powers requires that the legislature respects judicial decisions, just as the judiciary respects legislative prerogatives.
“My advice to all stakeholders is simple: let the rule of law and democratic institutions prevail. Senator Natasha should be given the space to serve her constituents without harassment or obstruction.
“The Senate leadership must rise above partisanship and provide an enabling environment for inclusivity, fairness, and respect for judicial outcomes.
“For her political opponents, the honourable path is to seek redress only through lawful channels, not through intimidation or delay tactics.
“In the end, democracy is strengthened when all actors: politicians, administrators, and institutions, place the stability of our system above personal or partisan interests.”