Justice Chizoba Orji of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court on Thursday granted Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a ₦50m bail after she pleaded not guilty for alleged defamation.
A female lawmaker, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, was granted bail by a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court with one surety. The surety must own landed property in Abuja and be a responsible resident of the FCT.
Justice Orji adjourned the case to September 23, 2025, for trial.
Earlier, the Federal Government arraigned the suspended senator on a three-count charge of alleged defamation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. One of the charges stemmed from her claim that both men plotted to assassinate her.
Security presence was noticeable around the court premises. Among those in attendance were her husband, former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili, activist Aisha Yesufu, and many supporters.
Prosecuting counsel David Kaswe requested that the defendant be remanded in prison pending the outcome of the trial. However, defense lawyer Roland Otaru successfully argued for her bail, asserting that she was not a flight risk and would not obstruct investigations or witnesses. He also noted that the Constitution presumes her innocence and that the Administration of Criminal Justice Act encourages the granting of bail in such matters.
Justice Orji ruled that the offense was not capital and acknowledged the defendant’s right to be presumed innocent. She granted bail in the sum of ₦50 million, with one surety of the same amount. The surety must own land within the court’s jurisdiction.
The government cited Section 391 of the Penal Code, accusing her of knowingly making statements intended to damage reputations—an offense punishable under Section 392. Akpabio and Bello are expected to appear as prosecution witnesses when the trial begins in September.
