The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has terminated the criminal proceedings instituted by the Federal Government against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, following the withdrawal of the case by the Attorney-General of the Federation.
The development brings an end to a closely watched prosecution involving the senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, which had sparked intense debate across the country.
Court documents show that the Office of the Attorney-General filed a Notice of Discontinuance, leading the court to formally strike out all charges, including criminal defamation, previously filed against the lawmaker. The suit stemmed from statements allegedly made by Akpoti-Uduaghan during a televised programme and had raised concerns among rights groups about freedom of expression and political dissent.
During proceedings, the presiding judge, Justice C. N. Oji, acknowledged the notice dated December 12, 2025, and ruled that the case be struck out in accordance with the law. The judge remarked that the withdrawal highlighted the importance of exercising prosecutorial powers with caution, particularly in politically sensitive matters.
Counsel representing the Federal Government confirmed in court that the decision to discontinue the case was taken under the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, stressing that it was made in the broader interest of justice and public trust in the legal system.
Speaking after the ruling, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan welcomed the outcome, describing it as a reaffirmation of democratic principles and the rule of law. She said she remained focused on her legislative duties and on advocating for the rights of Nigerians.
The case had drawn criticism from several civil society organisations, which had described the prosecution as an attempt to intimidate opposition voices. With the court’s decision, the legal battle that dominated public discourse for months has now been formally brought to a close.
