The rift between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan escalated on Friday when Akpabio filed a fresh defamation lawsuit worth N200 billion. Akpoti-Uduaghan confirmed receiving the court documents and shared a copy on her social media pages.
This development has drawn national attention and highlights a bitter conflict between the head of the National Assembly and a sitting senator.
Akpabio Defamation Lawsuit: Allegations and Claims
In the suit filed before Justice U. P. Kekemeke of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Akpabio accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of making “false, malicious and injurious” claims portraying him as a “sexual predator.” He said the allegations caused him “public hatred, contempt, and ridicule.”
The Senate President demands monetary damages, public retractions, and broadcast apologies across major media platforms. The court initially granted substituted service on November 6 after bailiffs could not serve Akpoti-Uduaghan personally. The Clerk of the National Assembly delivered the documents.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Responds
Akpoti-Uduaghan welcomed the court trial, claiming she can now present allegations that the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges refused to hear. She said:
“Now, I am glad that Akpabio has brought this up. The Ethics Committee declined to hear me, citing a defamation suit filed by his wife. At last, I can prove how I was sexually harassed and how refusing his demands led to unprecedented attacks on my person. See you in court, Godswill Akpabio.”
Her statement reignited public debate and intensified scrutiny of the Senate’s internal dynamics.
History of the Rift
The tension between the two lawmakers started months ago. In March, Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for six months after objecting to the relocation of her seat during plenary. She claimed the move aimed to silence her.
She accused Akpabio of running the Senate with an iron fist and once publicly called him a “dictator.” Although her suspension expired in September, she faced resistance before resuming her duties. Finally, Sergeant-at-Arms officials reopened her sealed office, allowing her to return without apology.
Public Reactions and Implications
Political analysts described this legal battle as unprecedented. It marks one of the most intense confrontations in the National Assembly in recent years. Moreover, it raises questions about accountability, Senate ethics, and how the legislature handles internal disputes.
