An Abuja Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has struck out the criminal charges previously instituted by the Federal Government against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, bringing an end to a high-profile legal case that drew national attention over freedom of expression and prosecutorial discretion.
The development follows the filing of a Notice of Discontinuance by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), prompting Justice C. N. Oji to formally dismiss the case on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The prosecution’s withdrawal effectively concluded proceedings in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025, which stemmed from comments allegedly made by the lawmaker during a televised interview.
According to court records, the notice — dated December 12, 2025 — was filed pursuant to provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, giving the AGF authority to discontinue the prosecution in the interest of justice and public confidence in the legal system. Following the filing, the court acknowledged the notice and struck out the matter.
The charges originally brought against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan were widely perceived as controversial and generated public debate about the limits of criminal defamation law in Nigeria, particularly regarding comments directed at powerful political figures. Critics — including civil society organisations and legal practitioners — had argued that the case risked setting a precedent for the criminalisation of political speech.
Reacting to the court’s decision, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, welcomed the outcome, describing it as a vindication of her belief in the rule of law and a positive affirmation of democratic principles. She thanked her legal team, supporters and constituents for their steadfast backing during the proceedings, pledging continued service to her people.
The case — which had initially been filed by the federal government amid broader political tensions — drew sustained media and public attention due to its implications for freedom of expression, political accountability and prosecutorial powers in Nigeria. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had consistently maintained her innocence and challenged the charges, asserting that they were misguided and politically motivated.
The AGF’s decision to withdraw the case and the subsequent court order to strike out the charges are expected to reduce tensions surrounding the matter, offering a reprieve for the embattled lawmaker and her supporters. Observers noted that the court’s action could help restore confidence in prosecutorial restraint and reinforce the importance of protecting democratic discourse.
Legal experts say the striking-out of the case underscores the need for caution when invoking criminal law in matters that intersect with political speech and public debate. They emphasise that the discretion to discontinue prosecutions — particularly those involving elected representatives — must be exercised with sensitivity to constitutional rights and democratic norms.
With the charges now dismissed, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is expected to continue her legislative duties and political activities without the cloud of criminal prosecution that had previously loomed over her. The outcome also serves as a reference point in ongoing discussions about the balance between legal accountability and freedom of expression in Nigeria’s democratic framework
