Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has accused the Federal Government of Nigeria of practicing selective justice following criminal charges filed against her for alleged defamatory remarks made on live television.
The Federal Government instituted a suit (CR/297/25) against the senator at the Federal Capital Territory High Court on May 16, 2025. The charges relate to statements allegedly made by Akpoti-Uduaghan that the government claims were defamatory under Section 391 of the Penal Code, with punishment prescribed under Section 392.
In a statement released by her legal counsel, Uju Nwoduwu, the senator's team revealed that Akpoti-Uduaghan had submitted twelve petitions between March and May 2025 that have allegedly been ignored by authorities. These petitions reportedly contain serious allegations including cyberstalking, threats to life, defamation, and an assassination plot.
Unattended Petitions Raise Concerns
"These petitions have neither been acknowledged nor acted upon by the Nigeria Police Force or any relevant security agency," the statement read, highlighting what the senator's team describes as a troubling pattern of selective enforcement.
The legal team expressed concern that while Akpoti-Uduaghan's complaints remain unaddressed, counter-allegations from individuals she had petitioned against—including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello—have been processed with notable speed.
"This selective response raises deep concerns about biased enforcement of justice," the statement added.
According to her legal representatives, some of the senator's petitions detail serious incidents, including the alleged abduction and attempted assassination of a protocol officer, with claims that these incidents are linked to high-profile individuals.
Senator Currently Abroad
The statement confirmed that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is currently out of the country on personal engagements, has received official communication regarding the charges filed against her.
Her legal team acknowledged public support and condemnation of what they termed an "extremely curious criminal charge" and expressed hope that "injustices against her shall not be sustained."
The case highlights ongoing tensions between the senator and several high-ranking government officials, with legal proceedings expected to continue as Akpoti-Uduaghan prepares her defense against the government's charges.
