A Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, has lifted its previous order preventing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from processing the recall petition against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a landmark ruling on Friday, the court affirmed that the recall process initiated by constituents of Kogi Central Senatorial District is constitutionally valid and aligns with their civic rights. It urged the constituents to exercise their rights in a peaceful and orderly manner.
This development follows an earlier interim injunction granted on Thursday, which had temporarily restrained INEC from receiving, accepting, or acting on the recall petition. The injunction also barred the electoral body from conducting any referendum based on the petition until the determination of a related motion.
The injunction was issued in response to an ex-parte application supported by an affidavit of extreme urgency filed by Anebe Jacob Ogirima and four other registered voters from Kogi Central. Their counsel, Smart Nwachimere, argued that the recall petition contained fictitious signatures, raising concerns about its authenticity.
The court, however, maintained its stance against the use of fake signatures, barring INEC from acting on any recall petitions containing fraudulent entries.
The case has been adjourned to May 6, 2025, for further proceedings.
Court clears path for recall process against senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
