Akpabio files ₦200 billion defamation suit against Senator Natasha Akpoti
Story by Susan Mbamah
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has filed a ₦200 billion defamation lawsuit against Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan over allegations of sexual harassment she made earlier this year.
In February 2025, Akpoti‑Uduaghan publicly claimed that Akpabio made unwanted sexual advances toward her at his office and residence in Akwa Ibom State. She said she rejected the advances and subsequently faced harassment and intimidation within the Senate.
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The suit, filed at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, accuses the senator of exposing Akpabio to “public hatred, contempt, and ridicule” by portraying him as a “sexual predator” who abused his office. The Senate president is seeking ₦200 billion in damages, a public retraction, and a nationwide apology. The court has allowed substituted service of the suit through the Clerk of the National Assembly, with proceedings scheduled to begin on January 21, 2026.
In response, Akpoti‑Uduaghan said she welcomes the legal challenge, describing it as an opportunity to substantiate her claims. She noted that previous attempts to have the matter heard by the Senate Ethics Committee were unsuccessful, leaving her without recourse until now.
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The case has sparked national debate on sexual harassment in Nigeria’s political sphere, with civil society groups calling for independent investigations and transparency, while others caution against potential intimidation of individuals who speak out.
The lawsuit marks a major development in the ongoing controversy, which has drawn widespread attention and commentary from both political observers and advocacy organizations.
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