The Federal Government of Nigeria has withdrawn criminal charges previously brought against Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan (Kogi Central), bringing an end to a legal proceeding that had attracted significant public attention. The decision was announced on January 15, 2026, when the prosecution formally informed the court that it would no longer pursue the case, leading to its dismissal.
Senator Akpoti‑Uduaghan had been arraigned on allegations that included criminal conspiracy and defamation, reportedly tied to her public statements about certain federal projects and officials. However, prosecutors told the Federal High Court in Abuja that they were withdrawing the charges “in the interest of justice,” prompting the presiding judge to strike out the matter from the court’s active docket.
The senator, a former House of Representatives member who later served as a gubernatorial candidate in Kogi State, has long been a vocal critic of governance issues and has used her platform to challenge government policies on accountability and transparency. Her supporters welcomed the withdrawal as a vindication and a reaffirmation of political rights.
Senator Akpoti‑Uduaghan thanked her legal team and well‑wishers in a brief statement following the court’s decision, saying she remained committed to her legislative duties and public service. The government’s move to drop the case was interpreted by many observers as a bid to reduce political tension and uphold democratic liberties, especially in the run‑up to the 2027 general elections.
Legal analysts noted that prosecutorial withdrawals in politically sensitive cases are relatively rare and widely watched, highlighting the delicate balance between enforcement and rights protection in high‑profile political disputes.
