A coalition of over 1,000 civil society organisations focused on women’s rights has urged the Nigerian Senate to appeal a Federal High Court ruling that reinstated Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

In a statement issued Monday in Abuja, the Coalition of Concerned Women for Legislative Integrity (CCWLI) described the ruling as “disturbing,” claiming it undermines legislative discipline and due process.

Justice Binta Nyako of the Abuja Federal High Court had ruled that the six-month suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan lacked legal basis and was disproportionately harsh. The judge ordered her immediate reinstatement, stating that her prolonged suspension disenfranchised the people of Kogi Central.

Reacting, CCWLI National President, Barr. Nana Amina Abdullahi, said the judgment sets a dangerous precedent.

“The Senate must not bow to populist pressure. Its authority to enforce internal discipline must be defended,” she said.

Abdullahi insisted that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was justified, describing her conduct as a violation of Senate rules. She rejected the argument that her constituents were denied representation.

“We are mothers, but we are not blind to misconduct dressed as activism,” she said. “Being a woman in public office should come with dignity, not drama.”

The coalition also accused international organisations of using feminism to shield misconduct. “It is not empowerment to promote disregard for institutional rules,” she added. “A male senator behaving in the same manner wouldn’t receive this level of public sympathy.”