Abuja, Nigeria – September 23, 2025
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has filed a legal challenge against defamation charges brought against her under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
The charges relate to alleged statements she made during a public address in Kogi State and a television interview, which Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello claim were defamatory.
Arraigned before the Federal High Court, Abuja, on June 30, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan pleaded not guilty and was granted bail on self-recognition.
On Monday, her legal team filed preliminary objections before both the Federal High Court and the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, challenging the courts’ jurisdiction and questioning the Attorney-General of the Federation’s authority to prosecute what the defense describes as a private defamation matter.
The senator’s legal team, which includes four Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Prof. Roland Otaru, SAN; Dr. E. West-Idahosa, SAN; J.J. Usman, SAN; and M.J. Numa, SAN argues that the charges are unconstitutional, frivolous, and politically motivated, designed to intimidate opposition voices.
The court adjourned the matter to October 20, 2025, for hearing on the preliminary objections and the possible commencement of trial.
The case is being closely watched, as it raises significant questions about the application of Nigeria’s cybercrime laws, free speech, and the role of federal authorities in prosecuting alleged defamation.
