Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Cybercrime Trial Adjourned To November 24

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on cybercrime charges to November 24.

The hearing, originally set for October 20, was disrupted on Monday by protests demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The demonstration caused major disruptions in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, preventing many workers and commuters from reaching their destinations.

Justice Mohammed Umar, who is presiding over the case, confirmed the rescheduled date. Akpoti-Uduaghan faces a six-count charge under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025. She is accused of transmitting false and harmful information electronically to malign, incite, endanger lives, and disturb public order.

The allegations include claims that on April 4, 2025, during a gathering in Ihima, Kogi State, Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of instructing former Governor Yahaya Bello to have her killed. She is also alleged to have repeated similar claims in a television interview.

At the last hearing on September 22, the prosecution’s attempt to call witnesses was delayed by a preliminary objection from the defence. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), argued that the court lacked jurisdiction due to alleged abuse of prosecutorial powers by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and complained that the defence had not been served with statements of prosecution witnesses.

Justice Umar emphasized that the prosecution must first respond to the preliminary objection before the court could proceed with the trial. The objection hearing, initially scheduled for October 20, was postponed due to Monday’s protests.