The absence of Justice Mohammed Umar stalled the trial of the Senator representing Kogi West, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, for alleged cybercrime at the Federal High Court, Abuja.
The matter, which was fixed for Monday by Justice Umar, could not proceed due to the judge’s absence.
The court subsequently fixed February 4, 2026, for the hearing of the matter.
Also, the matter did not hold on October 21 due to the protest organised by the Sahara Reporters Publisher, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, to demand the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, who was convicted for terrorism offences last Thursday.
Justice Umar had, on September 22, fixed October 21 for the hearing after the trial was stalled owing to an objection raised by the defendant.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was arraigned on June 30 on a six-count charge of cybercrime by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mohammed Abubakar.
The prosecution alleged that Akpoti-Uduaghan accused the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and ex-Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, of plotting to kill her in the state.
She was granted bail, following which Justice Umar adjourned till September 22 for the commencement of the trial.
