July 9, 2025 | Abuja — Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has come under legal scrutiny following her failure to obey a court ruling mandating her to publish a public apology in two national newspapers.
The senator, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, was earlier ordered by a Federal High Court to issue a written apology over defamatory statements made against a former governorship candidate. The court instructed that the apology must be published in at least two widely circulated national dailies within a stipulated timeframe.
However, as of the deadline, Senator Natasha had yet to comply with the judgment, prompting concerns of contempt of court. Legal experts say such non-compliance is a direct violation of a binding judicial order and could attract punitive sanctions if not remedied promptly.
Sources close to the matter revealed that legal representatives of the aggrieved party are preparing to file contempt proceedings against the senator for willfully disobeying the court’s directive. The move could potentially lead to legal consequences, including fines or further legal action.
The court’s order had stemmed from a defamation suit, where the judge ruled that Senator Natasha’s comments were injurious to the reputation of the complainant and lacked substantiating evidence. The apology was considered a necessary restitution to mitigate the harm caused by her public statements.
As public reaction grows, many Nigerians have called on public officeholders to lead by example and uphold the rule of law, especially when it comes to court rulings. Senator Natasha has yet to issue any official statement on the matter.
