An Abuja High Court on Thursday, January 15, struck out the criminal charges instituted by the Federal Government against the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, effectively bringing to an end a high-profile legal battle that generated nationwide controversy.
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 charges of criminal defamation and related offences earlier preferred against the senator.
Naijaonpoint reports that the development brought proceedings in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025 to a close. The Notice of Discontinuance, dated December 12, 2025, was acknowledged by the court during Thursday’s sitting.
Presiding over the matter, Justice C. N. Oji noted the notice and accordingly struck out the case.
In his remarks, the judge emphasised the importance of caution in the exercise of prosecutorial powers, particularly in a democratic society.
“The court hopes that this decision will pave the way for restraint, healing, and respect for the rule of law in our democratic process,” Justice Oji said.
Counsel to the Federal Government confirmed the withdrawal of the charges in open court, explaining that the move was in line with existing legal provisions.
“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,” the government lawyer said.
“This decision is taken in the overall interest of justice and public confidence in the legal system.”
The case had attracted intense public scrutiny after it arose from comments allegedly made by Akpoti-Uduaghan during a televised interview.
Its prosecution triggered sustained debate around freedom of expression, political accountability and the scope of prosecutorial authority within Nigeria’s democratic framework.
The striking out of the charges follows months of legal controversy and public discourse, during which several civil society organisations and rights groups criticised the prosecution, describing it as an attempt to stifle free speech and political engagement.
With the case now terminated, observers say the decision may shape future conversations around the balance between state power and individual rights in Nigeria’s democracy.