The trial of suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on alleged cybercrime charges has been stalled following a preliminary objection raised by her legal team.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was arraigned on June 30 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, faces a six-count charge filed by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mohammed Abubakar.
She was granted bail shortly after her arraignment, and Justice Mohammed Umar had fixed September 22 for commencement of the trial.
At Monday’s proceedings, prosecuting counsel David Kaswe announced readiness to open the case and even set up a television screen in the courtroom.
He confirmed that the first prosecution witness was present and prepared to testify.
However, defence lawyer Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN) objected, insisting that the court lacked jurisdiction to hear the case.
He argued that the prosecution amounted to an abuse of the Attorney General of the Federation’s powers.
He further complained that the defence had not been served copies of the prosecution witnesses’ statements.
While Kaswe urged the court to allow the trial to proceed, Justice Umar ruled that the objection must first be addressed before any evidence is taken.
He subsequently adjourned the matter to October 20 to hear and determine the defence’s application.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, a prominent political figure, has consistently denied wrongdoing since the federal government filed charges against her.