Abuja court strikes out FG defamation charges against Natasha

From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja

The Federal Government (FG) has formally withdrawn the criminal charges filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

This comes weeks after the government’s withdrawal of the defamation case instituted by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Court documents showed that the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) filed a notice of discontinuance, effectively terminating the criminal defamation and related charges instituted against the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.

The notice, dated 12 December 2025, halted proceedings in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025, which stemmed from comments allegedly made by the senator during a televised interview.

The case had sparked widespread public debate, particularly around freedom of expression, political accountability and the use of criminal prosecution in political disputes.

Presiding over the matter, Hon. Justice C. N. Oji acknowledged the notice in open court and accordingly struck out the charges. In brief remarks, the judge said the development highlighted the importance of restraint in the exercise of prosecutorial powers, expressing hope that the decision would strengthen respect for the rule of law within Nigeria’s democratic framework.

Counsel representing the Federal Government confirmed the withdrawal of the case, explaining that the decision was taken in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.

“On behalf of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation, we have filed a notice of discontinuance in this matter,” the prosecution told the court, adding that the move was “in the overall interest of justice and public confidence in the legal system.”

Speaking after the court session, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan welcomed the outcome, describing it as a vindication of her stance throughout the legal battle.

“Today’s outcome affirms my belief in the rule of law,” she said. “I remain committed to serving my constituents and to defending the democratic rights of all Nigerians.”

She also expressed gratitude to her legal team and supporters for what she described as their unwavering support during the proceedings.