The hearing of a preliminary objection filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti’s legal team in her cybercrime case has been stalled. This is due to the absence of a Federal High Court judge. The case has now been rescheduled for February 4, 2026.
Judge Absent, Proceedings Delayed
Upon arrival at the court on Monday, Nairametrics reported that Justice Mohammed Umar did not sit. This prevented the hearing from taking place.
The Charges
Senator Akpoti faces a six-count charge brought by the Federal Government under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024. The lawmaker is accused of making statements that allegedly harmed the reputation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
According to the AGF, Akpoti “intentionally caused threats to be transmitted via a computer system and network,” violating Sections 24(1)(b) and 24(2)(c) of the Act. Akpoti has pleaded not guilty, allowing the trial process to proceed once jurisdictional issues are resolved.
Preliminary Objection
Akpoti’s counsel, Ehiogie West-Idahosa, SAN, argued that the prosecution cannot open its case until the preliminary objection is resolved. This objection challenges the court’s jurisdiction. He stressed that the motion addresses an alleged abuse of prosecutorial powers. It does not address the merits of the charges.
The prosecution, represented by D.E. Kaswe of the Department of Public Prosecutions, disagreed, insisting the objection should not delay the trial. Justice Umar ruled that the AGF must file a formal written response before the case can move forward.
Significance of the Case
This high-profile trial highlights the Federal Government’s growing reliance on the Cybercrime Act for legal enforcement. Critics have warned that the law could potentially be used to suppress dissent and restrict press freedom. This raises concerns about civil liberties in Nigeria.
