Abuja, 19 June 2025 – Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan appeared before the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court today, facing charges of criminal defamation brought by the Federal Government of Nigeria on behalf of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his allies. The case, widely condemned as an abuse of power, is seen as an attempt to silence the Kogi Central senator’s allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio, which have yet to be independently investigated.
In a post on X, former Nigerian Minister Oby Ezekwesili described the arraignment as a “crafty act of diversion” by powerful figures seeking to dodge accountability. She accused Akpabio, in collaboration with the Senate and the Federal Government, of turning the tables on Akpoti-Uduaghan to suppress her demands for justice. Ezekwesili warned that the move sends a chilling message to Nigerians: those who speak out against the powerful risk oppression and silencing.
The senator faced a three-count charge of criminal defamation, to which she confidently pleaded not guilty. In a striking development, the Federal Government’s lawyers argued that Akpoti-Uduaghan be denied bail and remanded in prison until the trial, scheduled to commence on 23 September 2025. Justice Orji rejected this request, granting bail upon the fulfilment of certain conditions, which the senator met by the end of the proceedings. She left the courtroom accompanied by her husband, greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters.
The courtroom was filled with prominent figures, including Ezekwesili, Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, Aisha Yesufu, and representatives from the Feminist Initiative for Development and Advocacy (FIDA) Nigeria, alongside Akpoti-Uduaghan’s devoted constituents from Kogi Central and other Nigerian citizens rallying for justice. Ezekwesili noted the “energetic response” of the senator’s supporters, describing it as heartening.
The case has sparked widespread outrage, with critics labelling Nigeria’s political landscape under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as descending into a “Banana Republic.” Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters argue that the defamation charges are a distraction from her original petition against Akpabio, which she has steadfastly maintained as the core issue. Quoting her earlier statement, “This injustice shall not be sustained,” Ezekwesili emphasised the senator’s resolve to pursue justice despite attempts to silence her.
As the trial date approaches, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s case has galvanised public support, with many Nigerians vowing to stand by her. “She will never walk alone,” Ezekwesili declared, a sentiment echoed by the diverse coalition of citizens who filled the courtroom in solidarity.
