FCT High Court grants adjournment in Akpoti-Uduaghan defamation case to February 23, 2026, despite defence objection over procedural timing
A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) sitting in Maitama has granted the prosecution’s request to adjourn further hearing in the criminal defamation case against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, delaying proceedings until 23 February 2026.
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The adjournment follows a letter submitted by the prosecution to the court, despite the defence, led by Ehiogie West Idahosa (SAN), arguing that it was not properly served 48 hours before the hearing, as required by law.
Justice Chizoba Oji acknowledged the procedural gap but allowed the adjournment in the interest of justice.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, accompanied by her husband, faces charges relating to her claims that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello plotted to kill her.
She has filed a preliminary objection questioning the decision of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to file two similar charges simultaneously.
The prosecution, in a counter-affidavit, dismissed claims that the charges amounted to an abuse of court process.
The office of the AGF maintained that the three-count charge was filed after thorough investigations by the Nigerian Police Force and in compliance with the Penal Code Law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The criminal charge against the defendant is borne out of a comprehensive investigation, including all petitions related to the case, and is consistent with the extant laws,” the prosecution said, emphasizing that the action was taken in the interest of justice and public welfare.
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The High Court’s ruling means the preliminary objection and substantive matters in the Akpoti-Uduaghan defamation case will now be heard in February next year.
