Court Dismisses Criminal Charges Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

On Thursday, the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja ruled to strike down the criminal charges that the Federal Government had filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. This decision came after the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) chose to withdraw the case.

Court documents indicated that the AGF submitted a Notice of Discontinuance, which effectively ended the criminal defamation case along with related allegations against the senator who represents the Kogi Central Senatorial District.

This outcome has concluded a legal procedure that had garnered substantial attention from the public and ignited a national discourse regarding freedom of speech and political accountability.

The charges stemmed from statements made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan during a televised interview.

The legal action, designated as FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025, had been pending in the court for multiple months. The discontinuance notice, dated December 12, 2025, was formally presented during a resumed hearing.

Justice C. N. Oji, the presiding judge, acknowledged the receipt of the filing and dismissed the case accordingly. In his brief statements, he highlighted that the withdrawal signifies the necessity for caution when exercising prosecutorial powers, especially in cases with considerable public and political significance. He expressed hope that the ruling would emphasize adherence to the rule of law and enhance democratic stability.

The attorney representing the Federal Government confirmed the withdrawal in open court. He explained that the choice to halt the prosecution was made in accordance with the provisions laid out in the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. According to the prosecution, this decision reflected a broader commitment to justice and the maintenance of public trust in the legal framework.

After the court proceedings, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan characterized the ruling as a validation of her stance and a reaffirmation of her trust in the judicial system. She asserted that the judgement reveals that the rule of law is fundamental to Nigeria's democracy, pledging to continue her legislative responsibilities and service to the constituents of Kogi Central.

She also expressed gratitude towards her legal team and supporters for their unwavering support throughout the legal trial.

The case drew considerable controversy, with various civil society groups, legal analysts, and political commentators condemning the charges as an effort to suppress free expression and dissent in politics. The dismissal of the case is anticipated to revive discussions concerning the boundaries of criminal prosecutions in political contexts and the appropriate employment of state authority within a democracy.