Nigerian Government Sues Senator Nwebonyi Over Alleged Defamatory Remarks Against Senator Natasha

The Federal Government of Nigeria has filed criminal defamation charges against Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi over statements allegedly made against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District.

The five-count charge, marked CR/547/2025, was filed at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja by Mohamed Babadoko Abubakar, Director of the Department of Public Prosecutions, on behalf of the Attorney General of the Federation.

According to the charge sheet dated September 11, 2025, Senator Nwebonyi, Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate representing Ebonyi North, allegedly made defamatory remarks between March 3 and 29, 2025, during appearances on Arise Television, Channels Television, TVC, News Central Television, and other media outlets.

The statements reportedly included descriptions of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan as a habitual accuser, a woman who uses her gender as a weapon, and a known blackmailer, as well as personal comments questioning her moral character.

The prosecution argues that these remarks were malicious and capable of exposing Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to public hatred, contempt, and ridicule. The charges cite violations of Sections 391 and 392 of the Penal Code Act, Cap 532, Laws of the Federal Capital Territory, which criminalize statements made with knowledge or reckless disregard that they could harm another person’s reputation.

Count One of the charges accuses Senator Nwebonyi of making imputations he knew could damage Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reputation during a live Arise Television interview on March 3, 2025. The remaining four counts allege similar statements made with malicious intent.

If convicted, Senator Nwebonyi faces penalties including imprisonment, a fine, or both under the Penal Code provisions.

The case has been scheduled for hearing at the FCT High Court, where Senator Nwebonyi is expected to enter his plea and defend himself against the allegations.