Court Adjourns Cybercrime Trial of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to November 24
The Federal High Court, Abuja Division, presided over by Justice Mohammed Umar, has adjourned to 24 November 2025 the hearing of the six-count cybercrime charge filed by the Federal Government against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.
The adjournment followed the disruption of court proceedings on Monday due to protests within the court premises.
The prosecution alleges that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan violated provisions of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act by making a false claim that certain political opponents were plotting to assassinate her. The alleged offence was said to have been committed both during a political address in Kogi State and on 3 April 2025, when she appeared on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
The Senator, who was arraigned on 30 June 2025, pleaded not guilty and was admitted to bail on self-recognition.
Through her lead counsel, Ehiogie West-Idahosa, SAN, the defendant filed a preliminary objection, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the charge. The objection was predicated on:
– Alleged abuse of prosecutorial powers by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF); and
– Failure of the prosecution to serve the defence with the full witness statements and proof of evidence.
Counsel argued that this omission contravened Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees the right of an accused person to adequate facilities for the preparation of their defence.
On his part, Mr. David Kaswe, counsel for the Federal Government, maintained that the prosecution was ready to proceed, with witnesses prepared to testify. He urged the court to dismiss the objection, insisting that the AGF acted within constitutional and statutory powers in preferring the charge.
Kaswe submitted: “We have exercised our prosecutorial powers in accordance with both the Constitution and the Cybercrime Act. The Attorney-General of the Federation has the authority to initiate proceedings against any person.”
The matter has been adjourned to 24 November 2025 for the commencement of trial, subject to the court’s determination of the pending preliminary objection.
