The Federal Government has arraigned Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan before Justice Chizoba Orji of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court over alleged defamation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.
The Kogi Central Senator appeared in court on Thursday to face a three-count charge filed against her by the government, accusing her of making statements considered defamatory and injurious to the reputations of the two high-profile politicians.
According to the charge, the government claimed that the lawmaker made imputations “knowing or having reason to believe that such imputation will harm the reputation of a person.” This is said to contravene Section 391 of the Penal Code CAP 89, Laws of the Federation 1990, and is punishable under Section 392.
One of the key allegations centers on a statement allegedly made by the senator, in which she claimed that Akpabio and Bello had plotted to assassinate her.
Security was tight around the court premises during the proceedings, which drew significant attention from civil society groups and political observers.
The courtroom was packed with supporters, including Senator Natasha’s husband, former Minister of Education Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, and rights activist Aisha Yesufu.
While the trial has only just commenced, both Senate President Godswill Akpabio and ex-Governor Yahaya Bello are listed among the government’s witnesses expected to testify during the case.
The lawmaker has yet to formally respond to the allegations in court, though her legal team has signaled readiness to challenge the charges vigorously.
More details will emerge as the case progresses.
