The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama has granted bail to the suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, in the sum of N50 million.
Justice Chizoba Orji, who ruled on the matter, declined the Federal Government’s request to remand the senator in prison while her trial is ongoing.
The judge ruled that there was enough proof that she would appear for her court sessions and saw no reason to keep her in custody.
As part of the bail conditions, the court said the senator must provide a surety who owns property in Abuja and has a good reputation.
The decision was based on the 1999 Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is facing a three-count charge linked to comments she made during a live interview on Channels Television on April 3.
According to the Federal Government, she falsely accused the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, of being involved in an attempt on her life.
The government claimed she made these statements knowing they could damage their reputation.
She is charged under section 391 of the Penal Code and risks punishment under section 392 if found guilty.
The charge sheet listed several witnesses, including the Senate President, the former Kogi Governor, two police officers, a serving senator, and one other individual.
The criminal case has been adjourned until September 23 for trial.
