Court Adjourns Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Cybercrime Trial to February 2026

Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on alleged cybercrime offences to February 4, 2026, following the judge’s absence on Monday.

The case had already suffered multiple delays. It was earlier scheduled for October 21, but proceedings were disrupted by a protest led by activist Omoyele Sowore, who demanded the release of Nnamdi Kanu, recently convicted on terrorism charges.

Justice Umar had initially fixed October 21 after the September 22 sitting was stalled due to an objection filed by the defence team.

Background of the Case

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was arraigned on June 30 on a six-count charge filed by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mohammed Abubakar. She was granted bail and the trial was expected to commence in September.

On the last date the matter was heard, the prosecution — led by David Kaswe — was set to call its first witness. A television screen had already been installed in the courtroom to aid the proceedings. However, the defence counsel, Ehiogie West-Idahosa, SAN, raised a preliminary objection.

Defence Objections

West-Idahosa argued that:

• The defence had filed a notice challenging the jurisdiction of the court.
• The objection was based on alleged abuse of prosecutorial powers by the Attorney General of the Federation.
• The defence had not been served with the statements of the prosecution witnesses, which violated due process.

Kaswe urged the court to proceed despite the objection, but Justice Umar ruled that the jurisdictional challenge must be resolved first before any evidence could be taken.

The Allegations

According to the charges, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly:

• Transmitted false and injurious information electronically, with the intent to malign, incite, endanger lives, and disturb public order.
• Claimed during an April 4 gathering in Ihima, Kogi State, that Senate President Godswill Akpabio instructed former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello to have her assassinated.
• Repeated similar allegations during a television interview.

The charges were filed under the Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention, etc (Amendment) Act, 2024.