Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was granted ₦50 million (approx. $32,000) bail on Thursday after appearing in court over defamation charges. The charges stem from her public accusation of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and alleged comments about former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
Her court appearance in Abuja drew notable figures including her husband, activist Oby Ezekwesili, and Aisha Yesufu, underlining strong public support. The trial, citing Section 391 of Nigeria’s penal code, has been adjourned to September 23, 2025.
Legal expert Muhammad Bashman described the process as “progressive but concerning,” noting that in the UK, defamation is no longer a criminal offense but a civil matter—a shift seen as a safeguard for free speech.
