By Prosper Mene
Abuja, October 21, 2025
The Federal High Court in Abuja has delayed the cybercrime trial of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to November 24. The decision, made by Justice Mohammed Umar, follows disruptions caused by protests and a legal objection raised by the senator’s defense team. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the senator’s prominence and the serious nature of the charges against her.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, is accused of spreading false information online to harm the reputation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello. The six-count charge, filed in June under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act, claims she used electronic platforms to make statements that could incite unrest. She has denied the allegations, calling them an attempt to silence her for speaking out.
The trial was set to move forward on Monday, but nationwide protests demanding the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, led by activist Omoyele Sowore, halted court activities. When the court reconvened on Tuesday, the defense raised an objection just as the prosecution prepared to present its first witness. Justice Umar decided to address the objection first, leading to the new hearing date.
The case has sparked debates about free speech and the use of cybercrime laws in Nigeria. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who recently returned to the Senate after a six-month suspension, says the charges are politically motivated. Her supporters argue that the trial is an effort to curb her outspoken criticism of powerful figures. The senator was granted bail in June and remains free as the case continues.
The November 24 hearing will be a key moment in this high-profile case. The court will rule on the defense’s objection before the prosecution can present its evidence. With Nigeria facing growing concerns about cybercrime, the outcome of this trial could influence how similar cases are handled in the future. The case, listed as FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025, will remain under close watch.
