The trial of suspended Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has been delayed due to a nationwide strike. The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) began the industrial action on Monday, disrupting court operations across the country.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was expected to appear before the Federal Capital Territory High Court on Tuesday. But the strike forced the court to shut down, halting all proceedings.
Her lawyer, West Idahosa, confirmed the development. “As a law-abiding citizen, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan will continue to adhere to all court directives,” he said. He added that the senator is fully committed to respecting all legal procedures.
Details of the Charges and Allegations
The federal government filed criminal defamation charges against the senator on May 16, 2025. The Director of Public Prosecutions, Mohammed Abubakar, filed the charges under suit number CR/297/25.
Akpoti-Uduaghan is accused of making defamatory statements against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. The allegations stem from her appearance on a live television programme on April 3, 2025.
During the broadcast, she said: “It was part of the meeting, the discussions that Akpabio had with Yahaya Bello that night — to eliminate me… he then emphasised that I should be killed in Kogi.”
The charge sheet also claims she accused Akpabio of being linked to an organ harvesting operation. This was allegedly mentioned during a private phone call with one Dr Sandra Duru.
The senator allegedly claimed that the operation involved the late Iniubong Umoren and was meant to help Akpabio’s sick wife.
Court Yet to Announce New Trial Date
The prosecution has listed Akpabio, Bello, and four other unnamed persons as witnesses in the case. However, with the judiciary on strike, the court is yet to set a new trial date.
The ongoing JUSUN strike has paralyzed court activities nationwide. Legal experts say the strike may affect other scheduled cases if it continues.
Many Nigerians are watching the case closely due to its political weight and sensitive nature. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has not publicly denied or confirmed the allegations, but her legal team insists she will defend herself properly in court.
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