Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central, has rejected a High Court ruling in Lokoja ordering her to pay ₦1 billion in damages to Yahaya Bello over alleged defamation. The court, presided over by Justice A.S. Ibrahim, held that comments made by the senator during a television appearance on November 4, 2022, were defamatory. In the interview, she had described Bello as a “murderer” and “perpetrator of evil acts,” claims the court ruled were unjustified. In addition to the damages, the court issued a perpetual injunction restraining her and her associates from making further defamatory statements against the former governor on broadcast platforms. Reacting to the judgment, Akpoti-Uduaghan insisted her remarks were made in self-defence following what she described as “grievous accusations” of terrorism levelled against her by Bello. “I went on national television to debunk the allegations made against me. I had every right to defend myself before the Nigerian public,” she said. She also faulted the court’s decision, arguing that the evidence presented by her legal team was not properly considered. “I reject this judgment in totality. We presented sufficient evidence to justify our position, but it is clear these were not adequately evaluated,” she added. The senator further referenced the security situation in Kogi State during Bello’s tenure, alleging that many families are still grieving losses from that period. “There were numerous killings in Kogi State, particularly in Kogi Central, while he was governor. These are real issues that cannot be ignored,” she said. Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained that her comments were aimed at promoting accountability and reflecting the experiences of her constituents. “This matter does not end here. We will challenge the judgment at the Court of Appeal to ensure justice prevails,” she said.

A retired FBI profiler has suggested that blood found outside the home of Nancy Guthrie may point to a chilling detail about her disappearance. Speaking on a podcast hosted by Brian Entin, former FBI profiler Jim Clemente said the blood spatter pattern could indicate that only one person was involved in the alleged abduction of the 84-year-old. According to Clemente, if multiple attackers had been present, they would likely have had full control of the victim and prevented any struggle. Instead, he noted signs suggesting she may have been injured and coughing up blood while on the ground. He also pointed out that there is no clear evidence so far—such as multiple shoe prints—to confirm the involvement of more than one suspect. Footage released shortly after Guthrie’s disappearance showed what appeared to be a trail of blood outside her Tucson home, with visible stains leading up to the door. Reports also confirmed that blood was found inside the house. Another former FBI agent, Maureen O’Connell, previously explained that the blood pattern suggests Guthrie may not have walked out on her own. Instead, the absence of gaps or “voids” in the blood stains could mean she was already unconscious and possibly carried out. “In my view, she was likely wrapped up and removed from the home,” O’Connell said.