The Centre for Justice and Institutional Integrity (CJII), a recognized Civil Society Organization, has expressed strong support for the recent arraignment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court. The senator faces a three-count charge involving criminal defamation and the spread of malicious falsehoods.
Emphasizing the need for truth and legal accountability, CJII criticized Senator Natasha for allegedly failing to substantiate her accusations with any reliable evidence.
In a formal statement signed by Professor Reuben Micah, the organization asserted that this development signifies a critical reminder that truth must override theatrics in a lawful and democratic society.
“Justice should always take precedence over media spectacles. Public officeholders should never be allowed to manipulate attention through unfounded defamation,” the group declared.
The CJII further condemned what it described as months of strategic avoidance and publicity-driven narratives from the senator. They noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan was finally arraigned before the FCT High Court, following persistent efforts by the legal system to initiate proper judicial proceedings.
The charges were initiated by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, based on her public accusations targeted at the Senate President of Nigeria, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
This legal development marks a pivotal moment in a saga where the senator allegedly made several unverified claims, including accusations of sexual harassment and attempted assassination. These claims, the group pointed out, were widely circulated in both local and international media outlets, often without supporting documentation.
The allegations, which also implicated former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, claimed the two men plotted to endanger her life. Yet, CJII stressed that there is no credible evidence, witness account, or investigative confirmation to validate these serious accusations.
Throughout the media storm, Senator Akpabio remained focused on governance, choosing not to respond to media agitation but to rely on due legal processes.
Attempts to officially serve court papers to Senator Natasha were reportedly obstructed, as she evaded legal notice for several months. Her eventual arraignment saw her plead not guilty, and she was granted bail of ₦50 million, with a surety mandated to own real estate within the Federal Capital Territory.
Justice Chizoba Orji, the presiding judge, set the commencement of trial for September 23, 2025.
“This is far from a political vendetta,” the group emphasized. “It’s a necessary step to protect public service integrity and confront the dangers of defamatory speech. As a lawmaker, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan must now face judicial scrutiny and either provide evidence or face accountability for her serious claims.”
CJII concluded by stating that the trial stands as a powerful precedent:
In any democratic system built on law, truth must lead over showmanship. Justice must outweigh drama. Public leadership should never be shackled by baseless smear campaigns.
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