The Federal Government has initiated legal proceedings against suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, alleging that she made defamatory statements during a live television broadcast. The suit, filed on May 16, 2025, at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, is marked CR/297/25.
The charges stem from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” program on April 3, where she reportedly made remarks deemed defamatory and injurious to the reputation of certain individuals. The government contends that these statements violate Section 391 of the Penal Code, which addresses defamation, and are punishable under Section 392.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello are listed as nominal complainants and key witnesses in the case. Other witnesses include Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Sandra Duru, and two investigating police officers, Maya Iliya and Abdulhafiz Garba.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended from the Senate on March 6 for what was described as “gross misconduct” following a confrontation with Akpabio concerning Senate seating arrangements. She has since claimed that her suspension was unjust and an attempt to silence her, particularly after she raised allegations of sexual harassment and political persecution.
In response to her claims, Akpabio filed a petition with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, seeking her prosecution for criminal defamation, incitement, false accusation, and conduct likely to cause public unrest. Bello also petitioned the IGP, denying Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations that he funded her recall and conspired with Akpabio to arrange her murder under the guise of a mob attack.
The case underscores the escalating tensions between Akpoti-Uduaghan and prominent political figures, highlighting the complexities of political discourse and legal accountability in Nigeria.
