Suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was on Thursday arraigned before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja on charges of defaming Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello.
The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice brought the three-count criminal charges against her, alleging harmful imputations made during a television interview. Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was accompanied to court by her husband and several supporters, pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Bail Granted Despite Prosecution's Objection
Following her plea, Federal Government lawyer David Kaswe requested that the court remand her in prison until the case's determination. However, Justice Chizoba Orji granted bail after considering arguments from Akpoti-Uduaghan's counsel, Professor Roland Otaru, SAN.
The judge set bail at N50 million with one surety in like sum, noting that the alleged offense was not a capital one and that the law presumes the defendant innocent. The surety must own landed property within the court's jurisdiction.
In his bail application, Professor Otaru argued that the suspended senator was not a flight risk and would not interfere with police investigation or witnesses. He cited constitutional provisions presuming innocence and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, which emphasizes bail for such offenses.
Details of the Allegations
According to the charge marked CR/297/25 filed on May 15, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan is accused of:
Making harmful imputations that Senate President Godswill Akpabio plotted with former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello to kill her
Making similar harmful imputations against ex-governor Yahaya Bello
Associating Senate President Akpabio with the death of one Miss Imoren Iniobong
The case has attracted significant public attention, with several prominent figures including Ezekwesili and Yesufu reportedly present at the court proceedings.
Justice Orji has scheduled September 23 for the commencement of trial in this high-profile defamation case.
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