Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, appeared at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday morning for her second arraignment over allegations of defamation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
The lawmaker was accompanied by her husband, Emmanuel Uduaghan, well-known activist Aisha Yesufu, and a group of supporters who turned out to show solidarity.
Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court is expected to preside over the proceedings.
Senator Natasha had previously been arraigned on a similar charge on June 19, 2025, at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court.
During the last hearing, the federal government had sought to have the senator arrested for her failure to appear in court. However, the judge declined the request, allowing the lawmaker to respond to the charges at a later date.
The case continues to generate public interest, particularly given the high-profile individuals involved and the implications for political expression and legal accountability in Nigeria.
