Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal High Court in Abuja has fined Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, the sum of ₦5 million for contempt of court. The penalty was imposed after the senator published a satirical “apology letter” addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in violation of an existing court order.
Justice Emeka Nwite, delivering the ruling on Friday, stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions constituted a willful disregard for the authority and dignity of the court. The court had previously warned both parties in a related defamation suit to refrain from making public comments or engaging in actions that could influence ongoing proceedings.
The controversial letter, which was widely circulated across social media earlier was styled as an apology but carried a distinctly sarcastic tone. It was seen by many as a public mockery of the Senate President amid a simmering political rift.
Justice Nwite noted that satire or political commentary, no matter how cleverly framed, does not grant immunity from contempt charges when it flouts a direct judicial directive.
“The respondent’s publication, though veiled as satire, was a clear act of defiance against this court’s instructions. Such behavior undermines the integrity of the judicial process and cannot be allowed to stand,” the judge ruled.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has been ordered to pay the ₦5 million fine within 14 days or risk further sanctions, which may include custodial consequences.
Political Tensions and Legal Implications: The ruling adds fuel to the ongoing tensions between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Akpabio. Political analysts see the situation as part of a broader struggle within the National Assembly, particularly among lawmakers critical of the current Senate leadership.
Close allies of the senator have described the court’s decision as politically driven, arguing that the satirical letter was an exercise in free speech. However, legal experts contend that the publication, coming during active litigation, crossed the line into contempt of court.
Supporters of Senate President Akpabio welcomed the court’s decision, calling it a “necessary step” in upholding judicial authority.
What Happens Next: The Federal High Court is expected to resume hearings in the underlying defamation case between the two lawmakers in the coming days. Meanwhile, the public awaits a formal response from Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has yet to make an official statement as of the time of publication.