The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has granted bail on self-recognition to the suspended Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, following her arraignment on a six-count charge bordering on alleged cybercrime.
The Federal Government accused the senator of making false and defamatory statements against the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
The charges stem from comments she allegedly made in both private and public forums, including a television interview, claiming that Akpabio had allegedly urged Bello to ensure her assassination occurred in Kogi State rather than Abuja to make it appear as a communal incident.
According to the prosecution, the statements widely circulated on digital platforms, were knowingly false and intended to incite public disorder, thereby contravening Section 24(2)(c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan pleaded not guilty to all six counts during Monday’s court proceedings.
Her lead counsel, Professor Roland Otaru (SAN), urged the court to grant his client bail on self-recognition, citing her status as a serving senator and a senior legal practitioner, noting that the prosecution did not file a counter-affidavit opposing the bail request.
Presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, agreed with the defence, granting bail on self-recognition. The matter was subsequently adjourned to September 22, 2025, for commencement of trial.
The case is expected to test the legal boundaries of political speech and the enforcement of Nigeria’s cybercrime laws in the digital age.
