Senate President Godswill Akpabio has filed a ₦200 billion defamation lawsuit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, escalating the political and legal dispute sparked by her earlier accusations of sexual harassment.
The suit, lodged at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja, argues that Natasha’s allegations were false, malicious, and intended to tarnish his public image. Akpabio is also seeking a public apology, a formal retraction, and an additional ₦500 million to cover legal costs.
According to the court filings, Akpabio insists the claims have subjected him to “public ridicule and reputational damage”, and he maintains that he has never sexually harassed any woman, describing Natasha’s allegations as politically motivated.
Natasha Responds: “See You in Court”
Reacting to the news of the lawsuit, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan released a strongly worded statement confirming she had received the legal documents and that she welcomes the court battle.
She argued that the judicial process offers a more transparent arena than the Senate’s internal mechanisms, which had previously dismissed her petition and handed her a six-month suspension earlier in the year.
“I am ready to prove my case in court. The Senate may have shut me down, but the judiciary will not. See you in court, Godswill Akpabio,” she said.
Natasha has consistently maintained that Akpabio made unwanted sexual advances towards her and allegedly linked his support for one of her motions to inappropriate favors; claims Akpabio denies.
Background: A Dispute Rooted in a February Encounter
The controversy began in February 2025, when Natasha accused the Senate President of sexual misconduct following a private meeting. She later submitted a formal petition to the Senate Ethics and Privileges Committee, but the committee dismissed the case, saying it lacked sufficient procedural basis.
Natasha’s suspension, which followed shortly after, drew widespread criticism from civil society groups who accused the Senate of attempting to silence a whistleblower.
Akpabio, on his part, has repeatedly stated that the accusations are fabricated, pointing to his long record of supporting women in politics and public service.
Political observers say the lawsuit could set a significant precedent for how sexual harassment allegations involving top government officials are handled in Nigeria.
Legal analysts also note that the high-profile nature of both parties ensures the case will attract national attention as proceedings unfold.