Nigerian Senate has initiated the process of amending the Legislative Houses (powers and privileges) Act to bolster its internal disciplinary mechanisms.
Gatekeepers News reports that the move follows a recent Federal High Court ruling that nullified the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central.
Justice Binta Nyako described the suspension as “excessive” and criticised the lack of clarity in the Senate Standing Rules and the principal Act regarding disciplinary procedures and duration.
To address this, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan sponsored the Legislative Houses (powers and privileges) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (SB. 708), which passed its first reading at the Senate on Tuesday.
The proposed legislation aims to provide clearer legal backing for sanctions against erring lawmakers and prevent future judicial reversals.
Senate Spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu on Sunday said the Senate has not received the certified true copy (CTC) of the court judgment delivered on July 4.
“We have formally applied for the CTC to enable a thorough review and informed determination of the appropriate legal response,” Adaramodu said.
