Over 200 armed police officers secured the court ahead of Senator Natasha’s arraignment.
Heavy security presence enveloped the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory today as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is scheduled to be arraigned on a three-count charge of defamation. Over 200 police operatives, armed and strategically positioned, were deployed to maintain order before, during, and after the hearing.
The case, brought by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, alleges that Senator Natasha defamed Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello.
By 10:30 a.m., supporters of Bello packed the courtroom, while Senator Natasha’s sympathizers, including former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili and prominent human rights activists, were also present.
Leading the defense team is Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Roland Otaru, alongside other top legal minds.
At press time, Senator Natasha had yet to arrive in court. The arraignment is expected to begin at 11 a.m.