The ongoing legal saga involving suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned her arraignment to June 30, 2025, due to procedural hurdles surrounding the service of charges against her. The senator stands accused of offences under the Cyber Crimes Act, but the court proceedings faced a setback today as personal service of the charges could not be executed.
The prosecution, represented by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), informed the court of their unsuccessful attempts to serve the charges directly to Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is reportedly out of the country. In a bid to expedite the legal process, the DPP sought permission from the court to serve the charges through her legal counsel, Johnson Usman (SAN). This request was granted, allowing the court to move forward despite the senator’s absence.
Today’s court session marked the first appearance of the case, where the DPP emphasized the urgency of the matter while also acknowledging the logistical challenges faced in reaching the senator. The court’s approval for substituted service signifies a pivotal moment in the proceedings, ensuring that Akpoti-Uduaghan is formally notified of the charges against her, even in her absence.
With the new arraignment date set for June 30, 2025, before Honourable Justice M.G. Umar in Court 5, all eyes will be on the upcoming session to see how this high-profile case unfolds. The legal community and the public alike are keenly observing the implications of this case, which touches on critical issues of defamation, cybercrime, and the accountability of public officials.
As the situation develops, the stakes remain high for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, whose political future hangs in the balance as she navigates these serious allegations.
