The Federal Government has formally withdrawn the criminal defamation and cyberbullying charges filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, bringing an end to a closely watched prosecution that sparked widespread legal and political debate.
The withdrawal followed the filing of a Notice of Discontinuance by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Court records show that the notice, which effectively terminated the case, was filed in December 2025 and subsequently endorsed by the court.Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, had been charged over comments made during a televised interview in which she alleged threats to her life by powerful political interests. The remarks led to petitions and the initiation of criminal proceedings on allegations of defamation and cyberbullying.
The case quickly became a flashpoint in national discourse, drawing criticism from civil society groups, legal experts, and political observers who questioned the use of criminal defamation laws in matters involving political speech and public commentary.
Although the Federal Government has not publicly stated its reasons for discontinuing the case, the development is widely viewed as a significant retreat from a prosecution that many described as controversial and potentially chilling to freedom of expression.
Meanwhile, related civil defamation suits arising from the same dispute are reported to be pending, meaning the broader legal battle surrounding the matter may not yet be fully resolved.
The senator has yet to issue an official statement following the withdrawal, but observers say the move represents a major turning point in a saga that has tested the boundaries between political accountability, free speech, and the criminal justice system in Nigeria.Further reactions from political stakeholders and legal analysts are expected in the coming days.
