High-Stakes Showdown: Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Faces Cybercrime Trial in Abuja
The political drama in Nigeria is set to intensify as suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, heads to trial on Monday, September 22, 2025, at the Federal High Court, Abuja. She faces a six-count criminal charge filed by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) over alleged cybercrime offences targeting Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District
The Charges Against Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
Arraigned on June 30, 2025, the Senator pleaded not guilty to charges linked to the alleged circulation of “false and injurious information” via electronic platforms.
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The prosecution claims her actions were meant to malign reputations, incite unrest, endanger lives, and disrupt public order.
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A key count alleges she publicly accused Akpabio of directing Bello to orchestrate her assassination in Kogi State, disguising it as an attack by locals.
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She reportedly repeated this allegation during a televised interview, intensifying political tension.
SEN Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON President Of the 10th Senate
The Courtroom Battle
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025, will be presided over by Justice Mohammed Umar.
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The Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mohammed Babadoko Abubakar, will lead the Federal Government’s team.
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Akpoti-Uduaghan’s defense is headed by Professor Roland Otaru (SAN).
The charges were filed after Akpabio petitioned the Inspector General of Police, citing reputational damage. Police investigations linked the matter to Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act, prompting government prosecution.
Former Governor of Kogi State Yahaya Bello
Bail and Legal Context
At her arraignment, Natasha was granted bail on self-recognizance, with the court affirming her constitutional right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. Justice Umar emphasized that under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, bail in such cases is routine.
Her defense counsel argued successfully that she posed no flight risk and would not interfere with witnesses or investigations.
Why This Trial Matters
This case sits at the crossroads of politics, free speech, and Nigeria’s cybercrime laws. With accusations as explosive as assassination plots involving top political figures, the trial could set a precedent for how political rhetoric and digital speech are prosecuted in Nigeria.
Observers say the outcome will not only affect Natasha’s political career but also test the boundaries of political accountability vs. freedom of expression in the country.
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