The ongoing conflict between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio has escalated, leading to multiple lawsuits involving both parties and their associates.

Background

The dispute began when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s seat was reassigned in the Senate chamber without her prior knowledge, leading to a confrontation during a plenary session. She resisted the relocation, which resulted in tensions between her and Senate President Akpabio.

Defamation Lawsuit by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan

On February 25, 2025, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan filed a defamation lawsuit against Senate President Akpabio and his Senior Legislative Aide, Mfon Patrick. The suit alleges that Patrick, at the prompting of Akpabio, made defamatory statements on Facebook, suggesting that Akpoti-Uduaghan believed being a lawmaker was only about “pancaking her face and wearing transparent outfits to the chambers.” She is seeking ₦100 billion in general damages and ₦300 million for litigation costs.

Counter-Lawsuits by Mrs. Unoma Akpabio

In response, Mrs. Unoma Akpabio, wife of the Senate President, filed separate lawsuits against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. She claims that the senator’s allegations of sexual harassment against her husband are false and have caused emotional trauma to her and her children. Mrs. Akpabio is seeking ₦250 billion in compensation for the violation of her fundamental human rights and an additional ₦1 billion in damages for defamation. She also requests a public apology in two national newspapers.

Current Status

As of March 1, 2025, the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has yet to schedule hearings for these lawsuits. The Senate’s Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions is also investigating the initial seat reassignment incident, with a report expected within two weeks.

These legal proceedings highlight significant tensions within Nigeria’s legislative body, raising concerns about internal governance and the conduct of public officials.

What This Means for Us

At Comfort Empowerment and Advocacy Foundation (CEAF), we firmly stand against all forms of abuse, harassment, and suppression of voices, especially those of women in leadership and governance. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s case is a stark reminder of the systemic challenges women face when they dare to speak up, claim their space, and challenge the status quo.

We advocate for a society where women are heard, not silenced; respected, not ridiculed; and empowered, not intimidated. The ongoing legal battle is not just about politics—it is about justice, equality, and the need to dismantle structures that continue to enable gender-based oppression.

As we follow this case, we remain committed to supporting women’s rights, dignity, and participation in leadership, ensuring that no woman is bullied, belittled, or silenced for standing her ground.

Justice must prevail. Women’s voices must be heard. We will not stop advocating for a world where respect and fairness are the norm, not the exception.