The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja strikes out the alleged defamation case filed by the Federal Government against the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Justice Chizoba Orji gives the ruling after the prosecution applies to discontinue the case, Mediaplusng.com reports.
The prosecution counsel, Aderonke Imana, formally informs the court of the Federal Government’s decision to withdraw the suit. Following the application, counsel to the senator, West Idahosa, asks the court to strike out the matter in line with the prosecution’s request.
Idahosa also urges the court to order the immediate release of all documents earlier deposited by the defendant and her sureties. He argues that with the discontinuance of the case, there is no legal basis to retain any of the documents, Mediaplusng.com reports.
The prosecution does not oppose the defence application, paving the way for the court to make a final decision on the matter.
In a brief ruling, Justice Chizoba Orji strikes out the alleged defamation suit and formally discharges the sureties attached to the case. The judge also orders that all documents belonging to the defendant and her sureties be returned without delay.
The court’s decision brings an end to the legal action initiated by the Federal Government against the lawmaker, following weeks of public attention and legal arguments surrounding the case.
Legal analysts say the striking out of the suit means the court does not determine the merits of the allegations, as the matter ends purely on the basis of the prosecution’s withdrawal.
Supporters of the senator welcome the ruling, describing it as a reaffirmation of due process and the right of the prosecution to discontinue cases when it deems fit.
The development also draws renewed attention to the use of criminal defamation laws and their implications for public officials and freedom of expression in Nigeria.
With the suit struck out and all conditions lifted, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is now fully discharged from all obligations arising from the case.
