The Federal Capital Territory High Court has officially scheduled June 3, 2025, for the arraignment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over criminal defamation charges instituted by the Federal Government. The development was confirmed via a court hearing notice dated May 22, 2025, and signed by the court registrar, Haradi Dada.
The senator, who represents Kogi Central, is to appear at High Court No. 8 in Maitama, Abuja, at 2:00 PM for hearing of the case listed as Suit No: CR/297/2025 between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Senator Natasha H. Akpoti-Uduaghan.
This arraignment date follows the earlier filing of a criminal complaint by the Federal Government on May 16, 2025, over statements made by Senator Natasha during a live interview on Channels Television’s “Politics Today.” She alleged that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello conspired to assassinate her. She further claimed Akpabio ordered the withdrawal of her security to make her an easy target and referenced the alleged use of organs from the late Iniubong Umoren in a transplant for Akpabio’s wife.
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Justice, argues that her remarks constitute criminal defamation under Sections 391 and 392 of the Penal Code, and were made with intent to harm the reputations of the individuals mentioned.
According to court documents, the prosecution will call Akpabio and Bello as principal witnesses in what is shaping up to be one of the most politically charged trials in recent memory.
Legal analysts suggest the outcome of the case could set a significant precedent regarding freedom of expression, accountability in public discourse, and the limits of parliamentary privilege.
