By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The Nigerian Federal Government has filed criminal charges against suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, accusing her of defaming Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
The three-count charge, brought before Justice C. N. Oji of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, was filed by the Department of Public Prosecutions on behalf of the Attorney-General of the Federation.
At the centre of the case is a televised interview Akpoti-Uduaghan granted on April 3, 2025, during which she alleged that Akpabio and Bello conspired to assassinate her. She further claimed that her official security was withdrawn deliberately by the Senate to leave her exposed to danger.
The government also cited a March 27 phone conversation where the senator allegedly accused Akpabio of involvement in a murder and organ trafficking case. Prosecutors say the claims were fabricated, damaging to public officials’ reputations, and capable of inciting unrest.
The charges fall under Sections 391 and 392 of the Penal Code, which define and penalize defamation. If convicted, Akpoti-Uduaghan faces up to two years in prison, a fine, or both.
Authorities argue that the senator’s actions were not only defamatory but also reckless and harmful to national stability, especially given the high-profile nature of those implicated.
Both Akpabio and Bello are expected to appear in court as witnesses. Justice Oji has ordered that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan be served all relevant court documents in advance of the trial.Attach
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