Abuja: A court in Abuja has granted Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan bail in the sum of N50 million in a case involving alleged defamation. Justice Chizoba Oji, while delivering her ruling, emphasized that the alleged offence is not a capital one and that the law presumes the senator to be innocent at this stage. The bail conditions include one reasonable surety who must own land property within the court’s jurisdiction.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the senator faces accusations of making harmful imputations against Akpabio, alleging that he conspired with Bello to harm her. The court has outlined multiple counts against her. In the second count, she is accused of making similar allegations against ex-governor Yahaya Bello, knowing that these statements could damage his reputation. The third count involves an accusation against Akpabio, associating him with the death of Miss Imoren Iniubong.

Justice Oji has set the date for the commencement of the trial on September 23. The proceedings will further address the accusations and evidence brought against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.