Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has applauded the judiciary after the Federal Government formally withdrew criminal defamation charges levelled against her.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, broke her silence on Wednesday shortly after an Abuja High Court terminated the suit.
In her reaction, the lawmaker described the decision as a triumph for due process and a validation of her long-held position.
“Today’s outcome affirms my belief in the rule of law. I remain committed to serving my constituents and defending the democratic rights of all Nigerians,” she said.
She also thanked her legal team and supporters, saying their encouragement kept her resolute through the court battle.
The matter was struck out after the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation filed a notice of discontinuance, citing statutory provisions.
The charges, filed in 2025, arose from comments ascribed to the senator during a television appearance, sparking a flurry of conversations nationwide on political speech and freedom of expression.
Justice C. N. Oji, who presided over the proceedings, acknowledged the withdrawal and terminated the case, noting that caution must guide the use of state prosecutorial authority.
“The court hopes that this decision will pave the way for restraint, healing, and respect for the rule of law in our democratic process,” the judge stated.
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Counsel representing the Federal Government also confirmed in open court that the withdrawal was made pursuant to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, describing it as being in the overriding interest of justice and public confidence.
