Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was granted bail in the sum of ₦50 million after pleading not guilty to charges of defamation at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court on Thursday. Justice Chizoba Orji issued the ruling, citing the nature of the offense and the presumption of innocence under Nigerian law.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, accused of defaming Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, was granted bail on the condition that she provides one surety with a landed property in Abuja. The court has set September 23, 2025, as the date for the trial to begin.
The Senator’s legal team, led by Roland Otaru, successfully argued that their client was not a flight risk and would not interfere with the investigation or witnesses. Otaru also pointed to the presumption of innocence enshrined in the Constitution and referenced the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, which supports granting bail for non-capital offenses.
Despite the defense’s request for bail, prosecuting lawyer David Kaswe contended that Akpoti-Uduaghan should remain in custody due to difficulties in serving the charge. However, Justice Orji ruled in favor of the bail, acknowledging that the charges did not constitute a capital offense.
In a statement, the prosecution outlined that the charges stemmed from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations against Akpabio and Bello. In a televised interview, she accused the two men of conspiring to assassinate her, citing the withdrawal of her security and subsequent threats. The charges also include allegations made during a phone conversation on March 27, 2025, where Akpoti-Uduaghan is accused of making defamatory remarks against Akpabio.
The court will hear from witnesses, including Akpabio and Bello, during the trial. The charges are in accordance with Section 391 of the Penal Code, which criminalizes defamation with the intent to harm a person’s reputation.
Key Facts:
- Bail: ₦50m, one surety with property in Abuja
- Trial Date: September 23, 2025
- Charges: Defamation of Senate President Akpabio and ex-Governor Bello
- Defense Argument: Akpoti-Uduaghan is not a flight risk
- Prosecution Argument: Bail should be denied due to challenges in service
- Witnesses: Akpabio and Bello to testify
This high-profile case draws attention to the issue of public figures facing legal consequences for statements deemed defamatory. It also highlights the intersection of politics, law, and public opinion, especially when accusations of misconduct involve top government officials.