Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan has rejected a ₦1 billion damages award against her in a defamation suit filed by former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello.
The judgment was delivered by the Kogi State High Court in Lokoja, which ruled that comments made by Akpoti‑Uduaghan on Arise Television’s “The Morning Show” on November 4, 2022, were defamatory and awarded Bello ₦1 billion in damages.
In response, Akpoti‑Uduaghan stated that she will not accept the judgment, asserting that she has the right to defend herself against the terrorism allegations at the centre of the case. She described the ruling as unjust and reiterated her commitment to clearing her name.
The suit stemmed from Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s remarks on the television programme, which Bello argued were defamatory and harmed his reputation. The court’s ruling in favour of Bello triggered the substantial damages award.
Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s rejection of the judgment signals that the legal battle may continue, as she weighs her options to appeal the decision and defend her reputation in court.
The case has drawn public attention, with many observing the implications of defamation law and freedom of expression in political discourse. As the matter unfolds, stakeholders and political watchers will be closely watching the next steps in the legal process.
