Alleged defamation: Court grants Akpoti-Uduaghan N50m bail

Justice Chizoba Orji of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court on Thursday granted Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a ₦50m bail after she pleaded not guilty for alleged defamation.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was granted bail with one surety, who must have a landed property in Abuja and must be a responsible resident of the FCT

The judge adjourned the case to September 23, 2025 for trial.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was arraigned by the Federal Government on three counts bordering on alleged defamation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.

Security operatives were visible around the court, with the proceeding attended by the lawmaker’s husband, a former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili; activist Aisha Yesufu; and numerous supporters.