Court Strikes Out Defamation Suit Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has struck out the defamation case against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, filed by the Federal Government. The case was discontinued after the prosecution lawyer, Aderonke Imana, applied for discontinuance .

The Federal Government had instituted a suit against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan in May 2025 over alleged defamatory remarks made on live television. The government accused the senator of “making an imputation knowing or having reason to believe that such imputation will harm the reputation of a person,” citing Section 391 of the Penal Code .

Justice Chizoba Orji struck out the suit and discharged the sureties, ordering that all their documents be returned to them. The judge noted that the development underscored the importance of restraint in the exercise of prosecutorial powers, stating that “the court hopes that this decision will pave the way for restraint, healing, and respect for the rule of law in our democratic process” .

Reacting to the court’s decision, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan described the outcome as a vindication of her position. “Today’s outcome affirms my belief in the rule of law. I remain committed to serving my constituents and defending the democratic rights of all Nigerians,” she said, thanking her legal team and supporters for their steadfast backing .

The striking out of the charges follows months of legal controversy and sustained public discourse over the boundaries of expression and accountability in Nigeria’s democracy. The case had drawn widespread criticism from civil society groups and rights advocates, who condemned it as an attempt to suppress free speech and political engagement .