Senate President Godswill Akpabio has filed a ₦200 billion defamation suit against Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator representing Kogi Central, following allegations that he sexually harassed her. The suit was instituted at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja, with proceedings scheduled to begin in January 2026.
Akpoti-Uduaghan confirmed receipt of the court processes via a Facebook post on Friday, stating that she welcomed the legal challenge as an opportunity to present evidence regarding her claims.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Natasha Responds, Says She Finally Has an Opportunity to Prove Her Claims
In her reaction, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Natasha expressed satisfaction that the matter was formally moving to court, saying she had previously been denied a platform to present her allegations through the Senate’s internal channels. Akpoti-Uduaghan Natasha alleged that the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges had declined to entertain her complaint on the basis that a related legal case was already pending.
According to Akpoti-Uduaghan post, her previous attempts to seek redress were hindered by procedural requirements compelling her to first appear before the committee—despite her suspension, which she described as “illegal”. Akpoti-Uduaghan added that her refusal to “give into demands” resulted in “unprovoked attacks” on her person.
The lawmaker disclosed that a court order issued on November 6 directed that she be served the suit through the Clerk of the National Assembly by substituted means.
Akpabio: Background to the Dispute
The dispute originates from an interview Akpoti-Uduaghan granted in February, during which she alleged that Akpabio had made sexual advances towards her both in his office and at his residence in Akwa Ibom. She further claimed that she began to experience hostility in the Senate after rejecting the alleged advances.
Senate President Akpabio has repeatedly denied the allegations. Both lawmakers were previously involved in heated exchanges on the Senate floor, including a notable disagreement over changes in seating arrangements.
The suit, seeking ₦200 billion in damages, is expected to come up for hearing on January 21, 2026.
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