Justice Chizoba Orji of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has granted Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan ₦50 million bail following her arraignment on charges of criminal defamation.
The Kogi Central lawmaker pleaded not guilty to a three-count charge filed by the Federal Government, accusing her of making defamatory statements against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
As part of the bail conditions, the court required one surety—who must own landed property within Abuja and be a responsible resident of the FCT. The case was adjourned to September 23, 2025 for the commencement of trial.
The charges stem from a televised interview and a phone conversation in which Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly claimed that Akpabio and Bello had plotted to assassinate her.
The prosecution said these comments were made “knowing or having reason to believe” they would harm the reputations of the two politicians—an offence under Sections 391 and 392 of the Penal Code.
Court documents revealed that both Akpabio and Bello are listed as prosecution witnesses and are expected to testify during the trial.
Thursday’s proceedings were held under heavy security. Among those in attendance were the senator’s husband, former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili, activist Aisha Yesufu, and a large number of supporters.
