Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, of misusing political power to witch-hunt innocent Nigerians. The lawmaker made the allegation on Wednesday after the Federal Government withdrew cybercrime charges earlier filed against her.
Senator Natasha spoke to journalists shortly after the Federal High Court in Abuja struck out the case against her. The trial judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, dismissed the charges following a formal notice of discontinuance filed by the prosecution on behalf of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).
The case, which was brought under the Cybercrimes Act, had attracted public attention due to Senator Natasha’s outspoken political profile and her history of disputes with powerful political figures. With the withdrawal of the charges, the senator described the case as a clear example of political persecution.
According to her, the decision by the Federal Government to drop the charges confirmed her long-held position that the case was not based on facts but was instead driven by powerful individuals seeking to silence her.
“In life, there are certain situations that test your faith,” she said. “I want to appreciate the good people of Nigeria, especially the people of Kogi State and Kogi Central, for standing with me during this ordeal.”
Senator Natasha alleged that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Governor Yahaya Bello were responsible for instigating the charges against her. She accused the two leaders of abusing their influence to intimidate and harass perceived opponents.
“The withdrawal of these two Federal Government cases against me only proves that they were maliciously instigated by two individuals, Akpabio and former Governor Yahaya Bello, who misuse power to their advantage in witch-hunting an innocent person,” she said.
The senator, however, expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom she credited for intervening after being briefed on the matter. She said the president’s decision to order the withdrawal of the charges showed leadership and commitment to justice.
“I’d like to extend a sincere appreciation to President Tinubu,” Natasha said. “He was briefed on the truth and ordered the discontinuance of the two federal government cases against me.”
She added that the outcome had renewed her faith in the Nigerian justice system, despite the challenges she faced. “I have never doubted that Nigeria is a land of possibilities. The truth will somehow get one vindicated, and now I can actually rest and resume my work,” she said.
The cybercrime charges were filed during a period of rising political tension involving the senator. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has often been in the news for her strong criticism of political leaders and her open stance on governance issues. Her supporters have repeatedly claimed she has been targeted because of her refusal to align with powerful interests.
Senator Natasha’s political journey has been marked by controversy and resilience. Before winning her seat in the Senate, she contested several elections and challenged political heavyweights in Kogi State. Her eventual victory in the Kogi Central senatorial election was widely seen as a major upset, especially against the backdrop of strong political structures controlled by the ruling elite in the state.
Former Governor Yahaya Bello, who ruled Kogi State for eight years, remains a powerful political figure in the state. His administration was often criticised by opposition figures, including Natasha, over governance and political style. Their political rivalry has been open and intense.
On the other hand, Senate President Godswill Akpabio is one of the most influential politicians in the country. As the head of the National Assembly, he plays a key role in national politics. Allegations involving his office often attract strong reactions, though Akpabio has not publicly responded to Natasha’s latest claims.
Public reactions to the development have been mixed. Supporters of Senator Natasha see the court decision as proof that she was wrongly targeted. Many have taken to social media to congratulate her and call for accountability from those she accused.
Others, however, have urged caution, saying allegations of abuse of power should be properly investigated rather than debated only in the media. They argue that Nigeria’s democracy will grow stronger if institutions are allowed to function independently without political interference.
The case has also renewed discussions about the use of state power to intimidate political opponents. Civil society groups have repeatedly warned against what they describe as the increasing use of law enforcement and legal processes to settle political scores.
For Senator Natasha, the end of the legal battle marks a turning point. She said she is now ready to fully focus on her legislative duties and continue representing the interests of the people of Kogi Central.