Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, appeared before a Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday to face a six-count charge of alleged cybercrime and criminal defamation filed by the Federal Government.
The charges stem from comments allegedly made by the senator during a political event in Kogi State and an interview on national television, where she was accused of making statements considered injurious to the reputations of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello.
The prosecution, acting through the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), claimed Senator Natasha violated provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2024, specifically sections relating to cyberstalking and malicious publication.
Earlier attempts to serve the senator personally failed, prompting the court to allow substituted service through her legal representative. Upon her arrival in court, Natasha pleaded not guilty to all charges and was granted bail on self-recognition, a privilege often extended to lawmakers.
Presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, adjourned the case to September 22, 2025, for the commencement of trial.
The case has stirred public debate over the criminalization of speech and the use of cybercrime laws to pursue political figures. While critics view the charges as politically motivated, supporters of the prosecution argue that public figures must be held accountable for defamatory statements made in public forums.
Senator Natasha, known for her outspoken stance on governance and rights issues, has yet to issue an official statement following her court appearance.
