A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama on Monday adjourned further proceedings in the criminal defamation case against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central.
Justice Chizoba Oji fixed February 23, 2025, for the hearing of the senator’s preliminary objection after the court received a letter from the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation requesting an adjournment.
Akpoti-Uduaghan faces a three-count criminal defamation charge over her allegations that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello plotted to kill her.
She had filed a preliminary objection, challenging the AGF’s decision to institute similar cases against her in both the FCT High Court and the Federal High Court, calling it an abuse of court process.
The prosecution countered in a sworn affidavit, insisting that the charges were properly filed and followed a thorough investigation, adding that the AGF acted within constitutional powers and in the public interest.
During Monday’s session, the senator’s lawyer, Ehiogie West Idahosa, objected to the adjournment, citing that the defence was not notified at least 48 hours in advance as required by law.
Justice Oji acknowledged the procedural lapse but ruled that adjourning the case served the interest of justice.
The matter will resume on February 23, 2025, when the court will hear arguments on the senator’s preliminary objection.
