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Summary: The Federal Government withdrew criminal cases against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on January 15, 2026, after filing a letter of discontinuance in December 2025. The charges, filed in May 2025, stemmed from her televised allegations that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello plotted to assassinate her.
The Federal Government has discontinued criminal cases against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, with the charges officially struck out in court on January 15, 2026.
The cases were withdrawn following a letter of discontinuance sent by the Federal Government on December 12, 2025, though it took over a month for the matter to be heard and resolved in court.
The Federal Government had filed criminal charges against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan in May 2025 over alleged defamatory remarks made during a televised interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on April 3, 2025.
During the interview, the senator alleged that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello plotted to assassinate her. The Federal Government charged her under Section 391 of the Penal Code for making statements likely to harm the reputation of individuals.
Reacting after the court session, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan described the outcome as a vindication of her position, stating:
“Today’s outcome affirms my belief in the rule of law. I remain committed to serving my constituents and defending the democratic rights of all Nigerians.” She also thanked her legal team and supporters for their steadfast backing throughout the proceedings.
Human rights activist Aisha Yesufu, who was present in court when the cases were discontinued, celebrated the development as a victory against injustice.
“It was rewarding being with her in court today as the Federal Government discontinued the two cases that should never have been instituted against her,” Aisha said. She commended Senator Natasha for her courage and expressed gratitude to the senator’s husband, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi-Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri Kingdom, for his unwavering support.
