The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed November 24 for the continuation of trial in the six-count cybercrime charge filed by the Federal Government against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District.
Justice Mohammed Umar announced the new date after court proceedings were disrupted by a protest that halted judicial activities earlier in the week.
In the case, the Federal Government accused Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan of violating provisions of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act by allegedly making false claims about an assassination plot against her. The government alleged that she made the statements during an address to her supporters in Kogi State and on April 3, while appearing on Channels Television’s “Politics Today.”
The lawmaker, who was first arraigned on June 30, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. She was granted bail on self-recognition.
However, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lead counsel, Ehiogie West-Idahosa, SAN, has filed a preliminary objection, challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case. The defence argued that the prosecution’s action amounted to an abuse of the powers of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and violated her constitutional rights to fair hearing, as guaranteed under Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution.
The defence also complained that the prosecution failed to serve them the full statements of the proposed witnesses, a step they said was essential for preparing a proper defence.
But prosecution counsel, David Kaswe, maintained that the Federal Government acted within its legal powers and that its witnesses were ready to testify. He urged the court to dismiss the objection and allow the trial to proceed, insisting the AGF was fully empowered to bring the charges.
Justice Umar adjourned the case to November 24 for hearing, during which the court is expected to consider both the preliminary objection and the commencement of the trial.
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