The Federal High Court in Abuja has indeed adjourned the cybercrime trial of suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to October 20, 2025. The adjournment came after her defense team raised a preliminary objection challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case.
Key Details:
– *Charges Against Senator Natasha*: She faces a six-count charge filed by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Mohammed Abubakar, under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
– Allegations: Natasha allegedly transmitted false information via electronic means with the intention to malign, incite, and endanger lives, and breach public order. Specifically, she claimed Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello plotted to kill her.
– Defense Objection: Natasha’s lawyer, Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), argued that the prosecution amounted to an abuse of the Attorney General’s powers and complained about not being served with complete witness statements.
– Prosecution’s Response: The prosecution urged the court to dismiss the objection and proceed with the trial, arguing that the AGF acted within constitutional powers.
– Court’s Ruling: Justice Mohammed Umar ruled that the objection must first be determined before any further steps in the trial.
The October 20 hearing will focus on addressing the defense’s objection and potentially commencing the trial.
