The Federal High Court in Abuja has again adjourned the trial of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over alleged cybercrime charges, postponing proceedings to February 4, 2025.
The case, which had been scheduled for hearing on Monday before Justice Mohammed Umar, could not proceed due to the judge’s absence. As a result, the matter was shifted to the new date for the commencement of trial.
This is not the first time the case has been stalled. On October 21, proceedings were similarly disrupted as the court premises were affected by a protest led by activist Omoyele Sowore, demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, recently convicted on terrorism-related charges.
Justice Umar had earlier fixed October 21 for hearing after the September 22 session ended abruptly following an objection raised by the defence team.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was arraigned on June 30 on a six-count charge brought by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mohammed Abubakar. She was subsequently granted bail, and the matter was slated for trial commencement.
However, at the last sitting, just as prosecuting counsel David Kaswe prepared to call the first witness—with a television screen already mounted in the courtroom for evidence presentation—defence counsel raised yet another objection, halting proceedings.
With the latest adjournment, all eyes now turn to February 4, 2025, when the court is expected to finally begin hearing the case.
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