(DDM) – The Federal Government has officially arraigned Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi before the FCT High Court on a five-count criminal defamation charge.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the charges stem from alleged malicious statements made by the lawmaker against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan during televised interviews earlier this year.
According to court documents marked CR/547/2025, the case was filed by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mohamed Babadoko Abubakar, on behalf of the Attorney-General of the Federation.
The prosecution alleges that between March 3 and March 29, 2025, Senator Nwebonyi made several “false and injurious” remarks during appearances on national television, including Arise TV and Channels TV.
Prosecutors claim the statements were calculated to tarnish Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reputation, incite public ridicule, and undermine her credibility as a serving senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.
The charges were brought under Sections 391 and 392 of the Penal Code, which criminalize defamation and prescribe punishment by imprisonment, fine, or both.
Legal observers told DDM that the case represents one of the most high-profile political defamation suits in recent years, testing the balance between freedom of expression and protection of public reputation in Nigeria’s democracy.
In its submission, the prosecution argued that Senator Nwebonyi’s televised comments went beyond political opinion and amounted to deliberate character assassination.
It further noted that his remarks had caused “substantial emotional distress and reputational injury” to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has gained national attention for her anti-corruption campaigns and advocacy for industrial revitalization in Kogi State.
A Federal High Court source confirmed that the matter has been listed for hearing, where Senator Nwebonyi is expected to take his plea.
Meanwhile, political analysts say the case could set a precedent for how Nigeria’s judiciary interprets criminal defamation laws in the context of political rivalry and media freedom.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has yet to issue an official statement but is reportedly cooperating with investigators and the prosecution team.
Attempts by DDM to reach Senator Nwebonyi’s media aide were unsuccessful at press time, though close associates suggest he may challenge the constitutionality of the charges on grounds of free speech.
Nigeria’s defamation laws, rooted in the colonial-era Penal Code, have long sparked debate among legal experts, with calls for their review to align with democratic norms and international human rights standards.
Observers also note that the Attorney-General’s involvement underscores the government’s intention to take the matter seriously, signaling a broader warning against reckless political commentary on national media platforms.
As proceedings begin, all eyes are on the FCT High Court to determine whether the case will proceed to full trial or be struck out on preliminary grounds.
