Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central in the National Assembly, was on Monday arraigned by the Federal Government before the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges relating to alleged cybercrime.
The lawmaker, elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is facing a six-count charge centered on alleged cyber offences against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.
Appearing before Justice Mohammed Umar, Senator Natasha pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Following a bail application filed by her lead counsel, Roland Otaru (SAN), the court granted her bail on self-recognition.
Otaru urged the court to grant the senator bail, citing her status as a serving senator and senior member of the legal profession.
He also pointed out that the prosecution did not file a counter-affidavit opposing the application.
Justice Umar subsequently adjourned the matter until September 22, 2025, for the commencement of trial.
The Senator arrived in court accompanied by her husband, Emmanuel Uduaghan, renowned activist Aisha Yesufu, and a number of supporters.
Monday’s arraignment marks her second within two weeks.
On June 19, 2025, she appeared before the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in a separate case involving alleged defamation.
During the June 19 proceedings, the Federal Government had sought a bench warrant for her arrest over her absence in court.
However, the judge declined the request after it was revealed that the prosecution only served the charge on her counsel that same morning in court.
The judge ruled that since there had been no prior service of the charge or hearing notice, the Senator could not be held responsible for not appearing.
According to the charge sheet in the current cybercrime case, Senator Natasha is accused of making statements during a live television broadcast alleging that Senate President Akpabio and former Governor Bello were plotting to assassinate her.
The suit was filed by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, representing the Federal Government.
