Suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, says she is ready to face criminal defamation charges in court but insists the police must also investigate serious allegations she made against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
Her lawyer, Uju Nwoduwu, released a statement on Wednesday confirming that Akpoti-Uduaghan had received official notice of the charges and would appear once a trial date is announced.
“She remains resolute in her commitment to the rule of law and is prepared to defend herself in court. However, justice must not be selective. The police must investigate all pending petitions—especially those implicating high-ranking officials like Akpabio and Bello,” the statement said.
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The Federal Government filed the case on May 16, accusing Akpoti-Uduaghan of making false and damaging statements during a TV interview. The charges were brought under Section 391 of the Penal Code and are punishable under Section 392. Both Akpabio and Bello are listed as prosecution witnesses.
In the interview, Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed that Akpabio and Bello conspired to assassinate her. She linked the alleged plot to her controversial suspension from the Senate following a seating dispute. She also accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and says she has filed official complaints.
Her legal team expressed concern that while 12 petitions—ranging from threats to life, cyberstalking, to attempted assassination—were submitted between March and May 2025, none have received attention from security agencies.
They say only the cases filed by Akpabio and Bello have been pursued, calling this a “glaring double standard.”
“There is a legitimate public expectation that law enforcement uphold fairness and impartiality. Justice must be done, and must be seen to be done—regardless of status or political influence,” her lawyers said.
While abroad on personal matters, Akpoti-Uduaghan thanked the public for its support and promised to appear in court to defend herself. Her legal team also urged the Inspector-General of Police and the Attorney-General of the Federation to treat all complaints fairly and equally.