KEY POINTS
- AGF says charges align with Nigeria’s penal code.
- Court to hear senator’s objection to charges on Dec. 1.
- Prosecution insists defamation case followed due process.
The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) says the defamation charges filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan were lawfully instituted. The ministry argued that her comments against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello violated the penal code.
In a counter-affidavit opposing Akpoti-Uduaghan’s preliminary objection, the AGF said the Nigeria Police Force thoroughly investigated the case and filed the charges in the public interest. The senator had earlier claimed that Akpabio and Bello conspired to assassinate her, allegations both men denied.
Senator challenges validity of defamation charges in court
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who pleaded not guilty when arraigned on June 19 at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, filed a preliminary objection urging the court to dismiss the case. Her counsel, Ehighioge West-Idahosa (SAN), described the charges as an “abuse of prosecutorial powers.”
Furthermore, David Kaswe, who leads the prosecution, argued that they filed the case in good faith and in compliance with the penal code law and constitutional provisions. It stressed that the senator’s alleged actions and statements amounted to harmful imputations under Nigerian law.
Justice Chizoba Oji, who presides over the case, adjourned the hearing of the preliminary objection to December 1 after both sides confirmed that the prosecution had not properly served its counter-affidavit on the defence.
Court adjourns as parties prepare for December hearing
During Monday’s proceedings, Kaswe explained that the prosecution had mistakenly served its response to an incorrect address, while the defence team confirmed they were yet to receive any filing.
West-Idahosa requested a longer adjournment, also noting that some defence lawyers would attend the International Bar Association Conference in Canada.
Justice Oji subsequently granted an adjournment, directing both parties to ensure proper service ahead of the December 1 hearing, when the court will decide on the senator’s preliminary objection.
