The trial of the suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, over cybercrime charges has been adjourned to October 20, 2025, by the Federal High Court in Abuja. The trial faced a delay following a preliminary objection by the senator’s defense team questioning the court’s jurisdiction and alleged abuse of prosecutorial powers by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was arraigned on June 30, 2025, to face six-count charges filed by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation. The charges relate to accusations of cybercrime connected to statements the senator made about prominent political figures, including the Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. Natasha has consistently denied the charges and pleaded not guilty.

The case trial was set to begin on September 22, 2025, but was stalled when her lawyer, Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), raised concerns over procedural fairness. He stated, “Our preliminary objection is not against the nature of the charges, but the prosecutorial abuse and lack of proper jurisdiction.” He further noted that the prosecution had not provided the defense with witness statements crucial for cross-examination and preparation. Conversely, the prosecution counsel David Kaswe insisted the defense had ample time to file such objections and dismissed the delay arguments.

This legal matter is intertwined with Senator Natasha’s tumultuous relationship with the Senate leadership, which culminated in her six-month suspension in March 2025 following allegations of misconduct linked to a public dispute involving the seating arrangements and confrontations with Senate President Akpabio. The suspension led to her National Assembly office being sealed, although it was unsealed recently, just weeks before the adjourned court hearing date.

Her supporters have remained highly active and vocal, organizing demonstrations and voicing their demands for justice and fair treatment. “Even if suspended, Senator Natasha remains a voice for Kogi Central and Nigerian women,” said one supporter, highlighting the grassroots impact of the ongoing political drama.

Experts on Nigerian political law observe that the case highlights broader themes of governance, prosecutorial balance, and the challenges faced by lawmakers who openly confront powerful political structures. Legal analyst Chinedu Onyeukwu explained, “This case is about more than cybercrime; it raises critical questions about the integrity of judicial processes in politically sensitive trials.”

The adjournment to October 20 gives both sides more time to address preliminary legal hurdles and prepare for substantive trial proceedings. It also momentarily delays the resolution of a high-profile case that has drawn nationwide attention.

In conclusion, the next steps will involve the court ruling on the preliminary objections, after which the trial will proceed if the case is deemed to have legal standing. Observers and stakeholders will be watching closely, as the outcome could set important precedents for legal and political accountability in Nigeria’s National Assembly. The trial’s progression is likely to affect not only Senator Natasha’s political career but also the broader conversation on democracy and justice in Nigeria.