Akpabio, Nwaebonyi Sued by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Over Defamation, Rights Violation
By DAYO ADESULU
Two separate lawsuits have been filed before Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Courts against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate Chief Whip, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, over allegations of defamation, sexual harassment, and violation of the fundamental rights of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
These legal actions add a new layer of tension to the Senate’s internal conflicts, particularly as Akpoti-Uduaghan remains on a controversial six-month suspension from legislative activities.
FCT High Court Summons Akpabio and Senate Officials
In Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/754/2025, filed before Justice Abubakar Idris Kutigi, the court granted leave for substituted service of legal documents on Senator Akpabio. The summons extends to:
- Senator Godswill Akpabio, in his personal and official capacity as Senate President
- Mr. Mfon Patrick, a senior legislative aide to Akpabio
- The Clerk of the National Assembly
The request, brought via an ex parte motion (No. M/6603/2025) by U.J. Udoh of Victor Giwa & Associates, was supported by a six-paragraph affidavit deposed to by Hamzat Mogaji, the firm’s litigation manager.
- Fresh Tensions as Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Revives Sexual Harassment Claims Against Akpabio
- Senate President Akpabio Denies Sexual Harassment Allegations by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
- https://www.thecheernews.com/godswill-akpabios-diplomatic-rhetoric-a-tool-for-facilitating-change-or-controversy/
Justice Kutigi scheduled June 9, 2025, for a report on the service of the summons.
Separate Suit Targets Senator Nwaebonyi Over Televised Remarks
In a second case (Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/1359/25) before Justice A.O. Otaluka, the court granted leave for substituted service of court processes on Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi. The motion was filed on May 10, 2025, and supported by an eight-paragraph affidavit. It was argued by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Michael J. Numa.
Justice Otaluka adjourned the matter to June 25, 2025, for further hearing.
₦5 Billion Defamation Suit Over Channels TV Interview
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is demanding ₦5 billion in damages from Senator Nwaebonyi over defamatory comments made during a live interview on Channels Television’s “Sunrise Daily” on March 6, 2025.
Akpoti-Uduaghan claims the statements made by Nwaebonyi not only tarnished her reputation but also reinforced a pattern of targeted harassment and abuse she has faced from senior members of the National Assembly.
Broader Context: Gender Politics and Power Struggles
These legal proceedings are unfolding amid growing concerns about gender-based discrimination and political suppression in Nigeria’s legislative arm. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, a vocal advocate for transparency and female representation, has faced escalating political pushback since assuming office.
Her six-month suspension has been criticized by civil society groups as an act of political retaliation, and her recent legal actions indicate a determined bid to challenge institutional abuses of power.
Presidential Oversight in the Spotlight
Observers note that these developments place a spotlight on President Bola Tinubu’s administration, especially regarding its stance on gender equality and legislative accountability.
The lawsuits could also escalate into inter-branch friction, especially if the judiciary takes a firm stance against perceived impunity in the Senate.
Awaiting Response From Defendants
As of press time, no public response has been issued by Senators Akpabio or Nwaebonyi. However, legal analysts suggest that the gravity of the claims, especially those bordering on sexual harassment and constitutional rights violations, could prompt swift legal defense strategies or high-profile negotiations.
