A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has struck out the criminal charges filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan, bringing to an end a legal battle that had been ongoing since mid-2025.
The case was formally dismissed on Thursday, January 15, 2026, following a withdrawal of the prosecution by the Office of the Attorney‑General of the Federation (AGF).
The AGF had filed a Notice of Discontinuance in December 2025, which was received by the court on Monday, December 15, 2025, and certified by the court registry on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
With the notice accepted, the court ordered the charges struck out, ending the criminal proceedings against the senator.
Senator Akpoti‑Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, faced charges of criminal defamation linked to statements she made in April 2025 alleging threats to her life involving prominent political figures.
The prosecution, filed in May 2025 under case number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025, claimed her statements were defamatory and subject to criminal sanction.
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Reacting to the ruling, Senator Akpoti‑Uduaghan described it as a vindication, saying it allows her to focus fully on her legislative duties and engagement with her constituents.
Legal observers noted that the court’s acceptance of the discontinuance underscores the principle that criminal proceedings should only continue where there is substantial legal basis, particularly in politically sensitive matters.
The striking out of the case removes any threat of criminal liability and concludes this chapter of the senator’s legal dispute with the Federal Government.