Breaking News: The Senate Rejected Natasha’s Petition in Accordance With Committee Rules

Imaseun argued that the petition was fundamentally flawed, noting that it had been signed by Akpoti-Uduaghan herself, which violates Senate rules. He also pointed out the absence of an address in the petition, a necessary component. Additionally, Imaseun stated that everyone in the Senate was aware of the circumstances surrounding the petition, making it impossible to form an unbiased ad-hoc committee.

The committee ultimately dismissed the petition because the issue is currently in the courts. Imaseun cited Order 40 (7) from the Senate’s rules, which forbids the Senate from discussing matters pending in court. With the counsel for the respondent affirming that the case is indeed with a competent court, Imaseun announced that the committee would defer to the court for resolution, as it can offer an impartial judgment.

The dismissal of the petition carries important consequences, especially since Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a contempt application against both Imaseun and Senate President Godswill Akpabio regarding her suspension. The dispute over Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition and her suspension is ongoing, with the court’s ruling likely to play a crucial role in the final outcome.

In his statement, Imaseun reaffirmed that the committee’s action was in accordance with Senate rules and aimed at not interfering with an ongoing judicial process. “We cannot receive or deliberate on a matter that is already before a court of law,” he stated. “It is our responsibility to honor the rule of law and let the court address this matter, as it is best suited to deliver a fair and impartial verdict.”