The Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected an application by the Federal Government seeking to issue a bench warrant against suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, in an alleged defamation case.
The case, which came up for hearing on Monday, June 16, 2025, involves allegations of defamatory statements made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
Prosecution's Failed Attempt
During the court session, the prosecuting counsel, Mr. D.D. Kasue, informed the court that the matter was scheduled for arraignment but noted the defendant's absence. Kasue claimed that the charge had been served on the defendant's counsel, arguing that this meant Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was aware of the proceedings.
"It was this morning that we were able to serve the defendant through her counsel but the defendant is not in court. So it means the defendant is aware of this matter but decided not to appear in court," Kasue stated, requesting the court to issue a bench warrant against the senator.
Defense Counsel's Response
In response, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan's counsel, Mr. Jacob Usman, SAN, described the prosecution's application as "strange and uncourteous." He explained that he had only received the charge at 9:15 that morning in court.
"I find the application strange and it should be dishonoured. If the defendant has not been served, she cannot be in court," Usman argued, urging the court to dismiss the application.
Court's Decision
Justice Musa Umar, presiding over the case, questioned the prosecutor about whether the charge had been directly served on the defendant. When Kasue admitted it had not, Justice Umar ruled that it was impossible to grant a bench warrant against someone who had not been properly served.
The judge rejected the application for a bench warrant but granted an alternative request for substituted service through the senator's counsel. The matter was adjourned until June 30, 2025, for arraignment.
Background of the Case
The defamation case stems from comments allegedly made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan during a live appearance on Channels Television on April 3, 2025. According to court documents, she made statements against Senate President Akpabio and former Governor Bello, including allegations of a plot to assassinate her.
The Federal Government is prosecuting the case on behalf of the two political figures.
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