Reps Seek Clearer Court Judgments Over Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Legal Standoff
•By Admin
ABUJA – The House of Representatives has raised concerns over the lack of clarity in judicial pronouncements across Nigeria, citing the case of suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the leadership of the Senate as a worrisome instance of legal ambiguity.
At Tuesday’s plenary, Hon. Clement Jimbo (APC, Akwa Ibom), speaking under Order 8 Rule 6 of the House Standing Orders, addressed the issue as a matter of personal explanation. He criticized what he described as a growing pattern of “unclear and contradictory” court rulings.
“Mr Speaker,” Jimbo said, “we have a constitutional duty to legislate for the peace, order, and good governance of this nation. It is vital that we highlight the apparent inconsistencies we are observing in the judicial space.”
He insisted that court decisions should be “clear, precise, and free from confusion,” warning that vague legal judgments could erode public trust and destabilize governance, especially in politically charged matters.
The motion was adopted without opposition, reflecting widespread agreement within the chamber. Jimbo’s comments come in the wake of a contentious legal dispute between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
He stressed that the judiciary’s integrity could be undermined if judgments continue to permit multiple interpretations, especially in cases with far-reaching political implications.
“There is a pressing need to refine the framework used in drafting and delivering court judgments,” he said. “Our judges must ensure their rulings are unambiguous and fully aligned with the intent of the law.”
Although the House resolution is advisory and carries no legal force over the judiciary, it is likely to stimulate important inter-institutional dialogue between the legislative and judicial branches on enhancing the precision of court rulings.
With the impasse over Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension still unresolved, attention now turns to whether the judiciary will take steps to address these concerns, and whether the Senate leadership will comply with judicial directives.
•INDEPENDENTNG.