Court strikes out federal government criminal charges against Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
The High Court sitting in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has struck out the criminal charges instituted by the Nigerian Government against the lawmaker representing Kogi Central, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Penpushing reports that the charges were struck out on Thursday, effectively bringing to an end a high-profile legal battle that sparked national debate, while court records showed that the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation filed a Notice of Discontinuance.
The development, however, prompted the court to formally strike out the criminal defamation and related charges that had been earlier preferred against the senator, a case which attracted intense public scrutiny, stemmed from comments allegedly made by Akpoti-Uduaghan during a televised interview.
Penpushing further report that the prosecution of the matter had generated sustained debate around freedom of expression, political accountability and the limits of prosecutorial powers in a democratic setting.
The presiding judge, Justice C. N. Oji acknowledged the notice of discontinuance dated December 12, 2025 and accordingly struck out the case, which brought proceedings in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025 to an end.
Penpushing also reports that the judge in his remarks, pointed out that the development underscored the need for restraint in the exercise of prosecutorial powers, stressing that the court hopes that this decision will pave the way for restraint, healing, and respect for the rule of law in our democratic process.
The counsel to the Nigerian Government confirmed the withdrawal of the charges in open court, explaining that the decision was taken in the overall interest of justice and public confidence in the legal system
“On behalf of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation, we have filed a notice of discontinuance in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. This decision is taken in the overall interest of justice and public confidence in the legal system,” he said.
Penpushing reports that Akpoti-Uduaghan in her reaction after the court session described the outcome as a vindication of her position, and thanked her legal team and supporters for their steadfast backing throughout the proceedings.
“Today’s outcome affirms my belief in the rule of law. I remain committed to serving my constituents and defending the democratic rights of all Nigerians’, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized.
Penpushing further reports that striking out of the charges follows months of legal controversy and sustained public discourse, with several civil society organisations and rights groups previously condemning the case as an attempt to stifle free speech and political engagement.
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