It Comes with an Apology and ₦5 Million Fine — Court Convicts Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for Contempt.

It Comes with an Apology and ₦5 Million Fine — Court Convicts Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for Contempt.

The Nigerian World.

Politics – The news as it trends.

In a dramatic legal twist, the Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for civil contempt of court and fined her ₦5 million.

The ruling, delivered by Justice Binta Nyako, stems from a satirical Facebook post Natasha made on April 27, 2025, despite a standing court order issued on April 4 that barred all parties from commenting on the ongoing case.

The court found that Natasha’s post violated the gag order and constituted contempt.

While the offense was classified as civil, Justice Nyako emphasized its seriousness. Instead of jail time, Natasha was ordered to:

Pay ₦5 million to the Federal Government

Publish a public apology in two national newspapers

Post the same apology on her Facebook page within seven days

But that’s not all.

The court also weighed in on her conduct in the Senate.

Justice Nyako affirmed that the Senate President has the authority to allocate seats, and that Natasha was not entitled to speak during the February 20 sitting because she was not seated in her assigned spot.

While the court acknowledged the Senate’s power to suspend members, it urged the chamber to reconsider the length of her suspension and allow her to return to represent her constituency — provided she apologizes to the Senate as well.

This ruling has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political and legal circles.

Critics argue that the punishment is excessive for a Facebook post, while others say it underscores the importance of respecting court orders, especially by public officials.

As the deadline for her apology looms, all eyes are on Natasha’s next move — and whether this case sets a precedent for how digital speech and political accountability intersect in Nigeria.

Yetunde B reports for Yeyetunde’s Blog.