The Federal High Court in Lokoja has issued an interim injunction barring the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, from receiving petitions to initiate a recall process against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The push to recall the suspended senator intensified on Thursday, with more groups in Kogi Central throwing their weight behind the process.
The court, which gave the order on Thursday, also restricted INEC staff, agents, privies, or assigns from accepting or acting on any petition containing fictitious signatures of purported members of the Kogi Central Senatorial District and from conducting any referendum pending the determination of the motion on notice to the same effect.
According to the order paper made available to newsmen on Friday morning, the court granted the application following an ex-parte application for an interim injunction supported by an affidavit of extreme urgency.
The court processes were sworn to by Anebe Jacob Ogirima for himself and four others who are registered voters and constituents of the Kogi Central Senatorial District of Kogi State.
However, the application was moved by Smart Nwachimere, Esq., of West-Idahosa, SAN & Co., but the case has been adjourned to May 6, 2025, for a report of service and further mention.
What Nigerians are saying
This development has sparked intense debate among Nigerians, with many taking to social media platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) to share their thoughts.
On Facebook, some users are hailing the court’s decision, saying it’s a victory for democracy and the rule of law.
“This is a great day for Nigeria’s democracy! The court has shown that it’s independent and willing to stand up for what’s right_,” wrote one user.
On X, others are criticizing the move, arguing that it undermines the democratic process and the right of constituents to recall their elected representatives.
“This is a setback for democracy. If the people want to recall their senator, they should be allowed to do so_,” tweeted another user.
Some Nigerians are also questioning the motives behind the court’s decision, wondering if there’s more to the story than meets the eye.
“What’s really going on here? Is this a genuine attempt to uphold the law, or is there something more sinister at play?_” asked a concerned citizen on Facebook.
As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: Nigerians are watching closely, and the outcome will have significant implications for the country’s democratic process.
