SENATOR Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was today arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja by the Federal Government on a six-count charge related to alleged cybercrime.
The charges, brought through the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, stem from accusations that the lawmaker made defamatory statements against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
According to the charge sheet, the senator had alleged during a live television appearance that both men were plotting her assassination.
Senator Natasha pleaded not guilty to all charges.
In response, Justice Mohammed Umar granted her bail on self-recognition, acknowledging her status as a sitting senator and senior member of the legal profession. The trial has been adjourned to September 22, 2025.
Her counsel, Roland Otaru (SAN), emphasized the absence of a counter-affidavit from the prosecution, which further supported the bail request. The senator was accompanied to court by her husband, Emmanuel Uduaghan, activist Aisha Yesufu, and several supporters.
This marks Senator Natasha’s second arraignment in recent weeks. On June 19, she faced a separate defamation case before an FCT High Court. During that session, the judge refused to issue an arrest warrant after ruling that she had not been properly served notice of the hearing.
The cybercrime case highlights escalating political tensions and legal battles involving high-profile lawmakers and former state officials.