News
BREAKING: Court drops FG’s criminal charges against Sen. Natasha
An Abuja High Court has dismissed the criminal charges filed by the Federal Government against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the lawmaker representing Kogi Central, bringing a high-profile legal case to a close.
Court documents revealed that the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation filed a Notice of Discontinuance, leading the court to formally strike out the criminal defamation and related charges previously brought against the senator.
The case, which had drawn significant national attention, arose from remarks allegedly made by Akpoti-Uduaghan during a televised interview.
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 Notice of Discontinuance, dated December 12, 2025, brought proceedings in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025 to an end.
Presiding over the matter on Thursday, Justice C. N. Oji acknowledged the notice and accordingly struck out the case.
In his remarks, the judge noted that the development underscored the need for restraint in the exercise of prosecutorial powers.
“The court hopes that this decision will pave the way for restraint, healing, and respect for the rule of law in our democratic process,” he said.
Counsel to the Federal Government confirmed the withdrawal of the charges in open court.
“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.
Reacting after the court session, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan described the outcome as a vindication of her position.
“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,” she said, while thanking her legal team and supporters for their steadfast backing throughout the proceedings.
The 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
Follow Us on Google Discover
I think about Tinubu’s re-election everyday, if he loses, Atiku, Obi will deal with me – Wike
Kwankwaso arrives Port Harcourt ahead of 2027 election
Uber announces exit from Nigeria after 12 years
Wike sets 2027 deadline for completion of FCT projects
African Union to launch credit rating agency October 7
Tinubu’s ‘dictatorship’ may end Nigeria’s democracy, SDP’s Adebayo warns
UEFA unveils special debut patches for UCL debutants
Nigeria records 14 fresh Lassa Fever cases – NCDC
NDA publishes 78th regular combatant course admission list
NAF opens 2026 recruitment for tradesmen, non-tradesmen
Five suspects arrested as police recover stolen vehicles in Cross River
Lagos court remands 74-year-old cleric over alleged defilement of granddaughter
Tinubu faces fresh scrutiny as US firm engages Congress over heroin claims
2027: Gawuna’s camp romances APC despite being given Kano NDC Senatorial ticket
Don’t discuss Atiku’s NYSC certificate case against Tinubu in public – Judge warns lawyers
NAF opens 2026 recruitment for tradesmen, non-tradesmen
2027: I will review NELFUND, offer debt forgiveness to Nigerian students – Atiku vows
‘Why can’t Nigerians buy petrol for N441-N872 per litre like, UAE, Angola Sudi Arabia, others’ – Atiku questions Tinubu
On LG Autonomy: I will send funds directly to LGs from Day 1 in office – Atiku vows
Yuguda warns Nigerians against Atiku’s promise to restore fuel subsidy, says its a political bait
2027: APC chieftain resigns, rejects support for Tinubu, Bauchi Governorship candidate
Don’t discuss Atiku’s NYSC certificate case against Tinubu in public – Judge warns lawyers
BREAKING: Lionel Messi retires from international football
Tinubu’s effort to secure Trump’s support for re-election has failed – Atiku’s lobbying firm claim
Xenophobia: Nigeria will no longer tolerate dehumanisation of its citizens in South Africa — Shettima
North, biggest beneficiary of my reforms — Tinubu, Arewa Forum, others disagree
Nollywood hit by another loss as Atinuke Kareem dies after prolonged cancer battle
2027: Major Jack picked as Chinda’s running mate in Rivers
2027: Opposition coalition push for four-year ‘government of national competence’ plan
