Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, marking her second arraignment over allegations of defamation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
She was accompanied by her husband, Emmanuel Uduaghan, renowned human rights activist Aisha Yesufu, and several supporters who gathered in solidarity.
The case, which is now before Justice Mohammed Umar, follows an earlier arraignment on June 19, 2025, at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, involving similar charges.
At that previous hearing, the court refused a request by the Federal Government to issue a bench warrant for her arrest due to her absence in court, citing valid reasons presented by her legal team.
The courtroom atmosphere remained tense but orderly, as the matter drew widespread public and political interest.
