Senator Natasha Withdraws from Criminal Case

The Federal Government has withdrawn the criminal defamation case against Senator Natasha, ending a significant legal battle.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially withdrawn the criminal defamation case instituted against Senator Natasha H Akpoti Uduaghan. This action brings to an end a high-profile prosecution. The case had attracted nationwide attention and stirred intense political debate.

Certified court documents have been obtained by our correspondent. These documents show that the Office of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) filed a Notice of Discontinuance. This action took place on December 12, 2025, before the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division. This action terminated the criminal proceedings against the senator representing Kogi Central.

The suit was filed in the name of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It followed petitions submitted by Godswill Akpabio and Yahaya Bello. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been formally charged with criminal defamation/cyber-bullying. These charges were based on comments she made during a televised interview on Politics Today. Seun Okinbaloye anchored the show. She alleged during the interview that there were plans to eliminate her.

According to the Notice of Discontinuance, the prosecution was withdrawn. This action was under Sections 108(1), 108(2)(a), and 108(5) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015. The withdrawal was also made under the inherent powers of the court. The document was signed on behalf of the Attorney-General by officials of the Department of Public Prosecutions of the Federation. It was duly certified by the court.

The case withdrawal follows months of legal controversy. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan publicly raised concerns over alleged threats to her life. Although she reportedly petitioned the Inspector-General of Police about the issue, she faced criminal charges for voicing her concerns. This action drew sharp criticism from civil society organisations and press-freedom advocates.

During the pendency of the case, several prominent figures were listed as witnesses. They included Usman Ododo, Ekpenyong Asuquo, Reno Omokri, and Sandra Duru.

Legal analysts emphasize the constitutional discretion that allows the Attorney-General to discontinue criminal proceedings. This action is done in the public interest. Politically, the move is expected to recalibrate national discourse. Discussions will focus on freedom of expression, whistle-blowing, and how public officials handle security-related allegations.

As of press time, there was no official statement from the Attorney-General’s office explaining the reasons for the discontinuance. Nonetheless, the court filing brings a decisive closure to the criminal case. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has consistently maintained her innocence.