Natasha to Face Court Tuesday Over FG Defamation Suit
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, is scheduled to appear before the Federal Capital Territory High Court on Tuesday, June 4, 2025, in response to a criminal defamation suit filed by the Federal Government.
The charges were brought forward by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mohammed Abubakar, under case number CR/297/25, following allegations that the lawmaker made defamatory statements against prominent political figures.
The Federal Government accuses Akpoti-Uduaghan of making false and injurious claims against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
The allegations stem from both a live television appearance and a private phone conversation, where she purportedly made serious accusations implicating the two politicians in plots of violence and unethical conduct.
One of the most significant claims was made during her April 3 appearance on Politics Today on Channels TV.
There, she reportedly alleged that Akpabio and Bello discussed a plan to assassinate her, quoting a conversation in which Akpabio allegedly said she “should be killed in Kogi.”
Further charges relate to a private telephone exchange with Dr. Sandra Duru on March 27, 2025.
In the recorded call, Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly accused Akpabio of participating in an organ harvesting operation intended to benefit his ailing wife, linking the disturbing claim to the controversial death of Iniubong Umoren, a case that had already stirred national outrage.
The Federal Government has listed Akpabio, Bello, and four other individuals as witnesses in the case, adding weight to the prosecution’s case.
The charges are viewed by legal observers as highly sensitive, given the stature of the accused and those allegedly defamed.
Speaking to The Punch, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, Idahosa, confirmed her commitment to appearing in court and defending the charges.
“Our client is a law-abiding citizen. She has no intention of defying the summons,” he said.
“We are fully prepared to respond to whatever is presented in court. The issue of protest or evasion does not arise.”
Idahosa also noted that the prosecution has already amended the charges once and suggested that further revisions could be forthcoming.
“We’ve seen a notice of amended charges, and we’re waiting to see what direction they’re taking. Whether or not there will be an arraignment, we’ll handle it accordingly.”
The case is drawing widespread attention, not only for its high-profile nature but also for its potential implications on freedom of expression and political accountability in Nigeria.
Natasha to Face Court Tuesday Over FG Defamation Suit