The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has cautioned Unoma Akpabio, wife of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, to refrain from interfering in the sexual harassment allegations she has leveled against her husband.
Escalating Tensions in the Senate
The dispute began when Akpoti-Uduaghan refused to sit in a designated seat during a Senate session, citing Order 10 of the Senate Standing Rules. The situation worsened after she appeared on Arise News on Friday, accusing Akpabio of:
- Blocking her legislative motions
- Maligning and intimidating her
- Sexually harassing her after she rejected his advances
In response, Mrs. Akpabio held a press conference in Abuja, dismissing the allegations as false and emphasizing that both families had enjoyed a cordial relationship long before Akpoti-Uduaghan’s marriage.
Senator’s Strongly-Worded Legal Letter
In a letter dated March 1, 2025, addressed to Mrs. Akpabio through her lawyer, Victor Giwa, Akpoti-Uduaghan urged her to stay away from the issue.
The letter, titled:
"Stay Away from Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sexual Harassment and Intimidation Allegation Against Sen. President Godswill Akpabio; To Safeguard Your Sanity and That of Your Family,"
stressed that the accusations were personal to the Senate President and that he should defend himself.
Akpoti-Uduaghan: 'I Have Endured Harassment for Too Long'
Akpoti-Uduaghan insisted she had suffered persistent harassment from Akpabio but was now compelled to speak out.
She warned Mrs. Akpabio to allow her husband to handle his own defense, stating:
“Our client has concrete evidence to substantiate her allegations. We will suggest that you leave the defense of the allegations for the Senate President to maintain your sanity and that of your family.”
The Senator also reaffirmed her commitment to defending Nigerian women and upholding family values in the face of intimidation.
What's Next?
With both parties standing firm, the controversy is expected to further test the integrity of the Senate and could have wider political implications. All eyes are now on Senate President Akpabio to see whether he will formally respond to the allegations himself.
