Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has rejected a judgment by a high court in Lokoja ordering her to pay N1 billion in damages to former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello over defamatory remarks, stating that she will challenge the decision at the appellate court.

The ruling, delivered by Justice A.S. Ibrahim, found that statements made by the senator during a television appearance in November 2022 were defamatory and unjustified. The court consequently awarded damages in favour of Bello and issued a perpetual injunction restraining her and her associates from making further such remarks in the media.

The suit stemmed from comments made by Akpoti-Uduaghan while responding to allegations previously levelled against her by Bello during a broadcast interview.

Reacting to the judgment, the lawmaker said her remarks were made in response to serious accusations against her and were intended to defend her reputation before the public.

She argued that the court did not adequately consider the evidence presented by her legal team and insisted that the decision would be contested.

The senator also referenced security concerns during Bello’s tenure, alleging that incidents of violence in parts of Kogi State informed her comments and underscored the need for accountability.

Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained that her statements were made in the public interest and reiterated her resolve to seek redress at the Court of Appeal.

The case highlights ongoing legal disputes involving political figures over public statements and reputational claims, with further proceedings expected as the matter moves to the appellate stage.