- The recent dispute between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio has garnered significant attention, highlighting internal tensions within Nigeria’s legislative body.
Background of the Feud
The conflict began on February 20, 2025, during a Senate plenary session when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan discovered her seat had been moved without prior notification. Expressing her dissatisfaction, she questioned the rationale behind the change, leading to a heated exchange with Senate President Akpabio. The situation escalated when Akpabio ordered the Sergeant-at-Arms to remove her from the chamber, an order she resisted, asserting her right to be heard and accusing Akpabio of partiality and suppressing her legislative contributions.
Defamation Allegations and Legal Actions
Following the incident, Mfon Patrick, a senior legislative aide to Akpabio, allegedly made a Facebook post criticizing Akpoti-Uduaghan’s understanding of legislative procedures and making disparaging remarks about her appearance. In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan filed a defamation lawsuit against both Akpabio and Patrick on February 25, 2025, seeking N100 billion in general damages and N300 million for litigation costs. She contends that the statements were false, damaging to her reputation, and intended to subject her to public ridicule.
Reactions and Calls for Accountability
The altercation has sparked reactions from various political figures. Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate in the recent Kogi governorship election, condemned Akpabio’s actions, describing them as “legislative autocracy and rascality.” Ajaka called for Akpabio’s removal as Senate President, emphasizing the need for leadership that upholds democratic values, inclusivity, and respect for all members, irrespective of gender or political affiliation.
Current Status and Implications
The Senate has referred the matter to its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for investigation, with a report expected within two weeks. This incident underscores the challenges within Nigeria’s legislative framework, particularly concerning gender dynamics and internal governance. The outcome of the investigation and the defamation lawsuit may have significant implications for the Senate’s leadership and its commitment to maintaining decorum and mutual respect among its members.
In conclusion, the feud between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio has brought to the forefront critical issues of leadership, gender equality, and the importance of upholding democratic principles within Nigeria’s legislative processes.