Federal Government Drops Criminal Defamation Charges Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

The Federal Government has officially discontinued the criminal defamation lawsuit filed against Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the current senator representing Kogi Central in Nigeria’s 10th National Assembly. On December 12, 2025, the Attorney General’s office submitted a formal notice of discontinuance to the Federal High Court, signaling the termination of the legal proceedings.

Background: Origin of the Defamation Suit

The legal action was initiated following complaints lodged by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. The senator had publicly accused both figures on Channels TV’s program, Politics Today, alleging a conspiracy to harm her physically. Despite her filing a petition with the Inspector General of Police citing threats to her safety, the government proceeded to charge her with criminal defamation and cyberbullying instead.

Key Witnesses and Parallel Legal Proceedings

Among the witnesses named in the now-dismissed case were prominent personalities such as Governor Usman Ododo, Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo, Ambassador Reno Omokri, and Sandra Duru. This defamation case is one of two lawsuits brought by the Federal Government against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. The second case is slated for a hearing on the upcoming Monday and is also expected to be dropped.

It is important to note that these charges were initiated by the Federal Government and not personally by Akpabio.

Akpabio’s Public Commitment to Withdraw Defamation Lawsuits

The withdrawal follows Senate President Akpabio’s recent public declaration to retract all defamation-related suits against individuals. During a New Year’s Day church service, Akpabio revealed that a sermon deeply influenced his decision to abandon the litigations.

He stated, “I had nearly nine lawsuits pending against people who defamed and slandered me. But after hearing the priest’s message, I realized it was meant for me. Therefore, I have instructed my lawyer to withdraw all these cases.”

Ongoing Civil Suit: ₦200 Billion Defamation Claim

Despite the criminal case being dropped, Akpabio’s ₦200 billion civil defamation lawsuit against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan remains active. Filed in December 2025, this suit alleges that the senator made false accusations of sexual harassment against him. The Senate President is demanding substantial damages, public retractions, and apologies across major media outlets.

Court documents from the Federal Capital Territory High Court assert that the senator’s statements severely damaged Akpabio’s reputation and exposed him to widespread public humiliation.

Context and Implications

This development highlights the complex interplay between political figures and legal battles in Nigeria’s current political climate. With increasing public scrutiny on defamation and cyberbullying laws, the case underscores the delicate balance between freedom of speech and protection of reputation. According to recent data from the Nigerian Communications Commission, cyber-related offenses have surged by 15% in the past year, prompting stricter enforcement of related laws.

As the civil suit progresses, observers anticipate further legal and political ramifications, especially given the high-profile nature of the individuals involved.