Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s contempt ruling sees Abuja court fine the suspended senator ₦5m over satirical Facebook post violating a standing gag order

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s contempt ruling has sparked fresh legal and political debate as the Federal High Court in Abuja found the suspended senator guilty of violating a court order.

Also read: Natasha Akpoti-Udauaghan’s cybercrime charges spark controversial courtroom drama

Justice Binta Nyako ruled that Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, acted in contempt by publishing a satirical apology on her Facebook page on April 7, despite a standing gag order issued on April 4.

The court had earlier barred all parties from making public comments on her ongoing suspension challenge.

In the ruling delivered on Friday, the judge stated that the social media post was not only in breach of the court’s directive but was crafted in a manner that made a mockery of the judiciary.

“The senator’s apology was clearly sarcastic and an intentional act of ridicule,” Justice Nyako said. “It amounts to direct defiance of this court’s authority.”

As punishment, Akpoti-Uduaghan must publish a formal apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page within seven days. The court also imposed a ₦5 million fine against her.

Though the action stemmed from a contempt complaint filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the court declined to grant any specific reliefs in his favour.

The judge clarified that the matter remained a civil contempt proceeding rather than one that awarded personal claims.

Also read: Sandra Duru premieres ‘beware of Natasha’ amid rising political speculations

The Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s contempt ruling is seen by legal analysts as a stern message to public figures on the importance of obeying judicial orders, regardless of political status or ongoing disputes.