Justice Chizoba Orji of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court on Thursday granted Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a ₦50m bail after she pleaded not guilty for alleged defamation.
“I stand for truth and accountability.”
— Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Courtroom appearance, June 2025)
The female lawmaker was granted bail with one surety, who must have a landed property in Abuja and must be a responsible resident of the FCT
The judge adjourned the case to September 23, 2025 for trial.
Earlier, the lawmaker was arraigned by the Federal Government on three counts bordering on alleged defamation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
Security operatives were visible around the court, with the proceeding attended by the lawmaker’s husband, a former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili; activist Aisha Yesufu; and numerous supporters.
