The Federal Government has withdrawn the criminal defamation case filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly.
A notice of discontinuance dated December 12, 2025, and filed by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, formally informed the Federal High Court of the decision to discontinue the prosecution.
The case followed petitions submitted by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, after the senator accused them of plotting to assassinate her during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
Although Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier petitioned the Inspector General of Police over alleged threats to her life, she was subsequently charged with criminal defamation and cyberbullying.
Several high-profile individuals were listed as prosecution witnesses in the now-withdrawn suit, including Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo, Ambassador Reno Omokri, and Sandra Duru.
The withdrawn charge is one of two criminal cases instituted by the Federal Government against the senator. The second case, which is scheduled for hearing on Monday, may also be withdrawn.
It is noteworthy that both cases were initiated by the Federal Government and not by Senate President Akpabio in his personal capacity.
The development comes shortly after Akpabio publicly announced his decision to withdraw all defamation-related lawsuits. Speaking during a New Year’s Day church service, the Senate President said he was moved by a sermon to discontinue the legal actions.
“I had almost nine cases in court against individuals who defamed and slandered my name. But after listening to the priest, I realised he was speaking directly to me, so I have directed my solicitor to withdraw all lawsuits against them,” Akpabio said.
Despite the withdrawal of the criminal charge, Akpabio’s ₦200 billion civil defamation suit against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan remains pending. Filed in December 2025, the suit accuses the senator of making false claims of sexual harassment.
According to court documents filed at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Akpabio is seeking damages, public retractions, and apologies, alleging that the statements severely damaged his reputation and subjected him to public ridicule.
