FG sues Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for defamation over live TV remarks

The Federal Government has filed a criminal defamation suit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, over comments she allegedly made during a live television broadcast.

The suit, marked CR/297/25, was filed before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory on May 16, 2025, with Akpoti-Uduaghan named as the sole defendant.

According to the charge sheet, the federal government accuses the senator of “making an imputation knowing or having reason to believe that such imputation will harm the reputation of a person,” in violation of Section 391 of the Penal Code, Cap 89, Laws of the Federation, 1990. The alleged offence is punishable under Section 392 of the same law.

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The suit lists two prominent figures—Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello—as key witnesses who are expected to provide evidence during the trial.

No further details were provided about the specific remarks made or the date of the television appearance in question. However, the case is expected to spark national interest given its high-profile nature and the involvement of top political figures.