FG Withdraws Criminal Charge Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

The Federal Government has formally withdrawn the criminal charge instituted against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, bringing a major legal development in the high-profile case that has drawn national attention.

Akahi News gathered that the withdrawal was effected through a notice of discontinuance filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja, in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025, between the Federal Government and the Kogi lawmaker.

Notice Filed Under ACJA Provisions

According to court documents sighted by Akahi News, the notice of discontinuance was dated December 12, 2025, and brought pursuant to Sections 108(1), 108(2)(a) and 108(5) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.

The notice clearly stated:

“The Office of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation intends to discontinue proceeding in this matter.”

The document was signed by M.B. Abubakar, Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, and Aderonke Imana, Assistant Chief State Counsel. It was filed on behalf of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi.

Court Endorsement and Certification

Court records further show that the notice was received and endorsed by the Federal High Court, Abuja, on December 15, 2025. The registry of the court subsequently certified the document as a true copy on December 18, 2025, thereby giving official effect to the discontinuance.

Legal observers note that under the ACJA, the Attorney-General of the Federation is empowered to discontinue criminal proceedings at any stage before judgment, a provision designed to serve the interest of justice and public policy.

Context: Akpabio’s Decision to Withdraw Cases

This development comes against the backdrop of a broader legal de-escalation involving the Senate leadership. On Thursday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio disclosed that he had directed his legal team to withdraw all court cases he instituted against individuals over alleged defamation.

Akahi News learnt that this directive aligns with efforts to reduce political and legal tensions arising from recent disputes.

In December 2025, Akpabio had filed a ₦200 billion defamation suit at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. The suit followed sexual harassment allegations reportedly made against him by the Kogi Central senator.

Implications and Reactions

While no official reason was stated in the notice for the withdrawal of the criminal charge, analysts believe the decision may help ease the political temperature and refocus legislative attention on governance and national priorities.

Legal experts also point out that the discontinuance does not amount to an acquittal on the merits but rather signifies the prosecution’s decision not to proceed further with the matter.

As of the time of filing this report, neither Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan nor her legal team had issued a formal statement on the development. However, political stakeholders across party lines are closely monitoring the unfolding implications for Senate politics and executive-legislative relations.

Akahi News will continue to track reactions and provide verified updates as the situation evolves.

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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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