In a significant legal move, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a lawsuit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging defamation.
The lawsuit, filed at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court today, names Akpabio and his senior legislative aide, Mfon Patrick, as co-defendants.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, through her legal representative Victor Giwa, claims that Akpabio defamed her in a Facebook post published by his aide.
The post, titled “Is local content committee of the senate Natasha’s birthright?” included a remark suggesting that she believed being a senator was about “pancaking her face and wearing transparent outfits to the Chambers.”
Giwa stated that the comment was not only defamatory but also provocative and demeaning. According to the suit, the statement “lowered her dignity in the eyes of her colleagues and right-thinking members of the public.”
Demands and Legal Action
As part of her lawsuit, Akpoti-Uduaghan is seeking several reliefs, including a declaration that the statement was defamatory and an order to restrain the defendants from making further derogatory statements about her.
The lawsuit demands an injunction preventing Akpabio, Patrick, or any of their associates from publishing further defamatory statements against her on any platform.
Additionally, she is seeking damages amounting to ₦100 billion, along with ₦300 million for litigation costs.
“An order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants whether acting by themselves or through their agents, privies, assigns, or associates from further publishing or causing to be published the said defamatory words herein stated or any other similar publications about the claimant on the social media platform or in any other manner, which is capable of defaming the claimant,” her suit reads.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal action comes at a time when tensions between her and Akpabio have been escalating. Recently, the Kogi lawmaker voiced her dissatisfaction after her seat in the Senate was reassigned due to a reshuffle. Her resistance to the change led to a heated confrontation with the Senate President.
Clash Over Seating Arrangement
The lawsuit follows a controversial Senate reshuffle that resulted in Akpoti-Uduaghan being assigned a new seat. She resisted the relocation, arguing that it was politically motivated. Her protest led to a public altercation with Akpabio, who ultimately referred her to the Senate Disciplinary Committee.
The dispute over seating arrangements, while seemingly minor, reflects deeper divisions within the Senate. Some analysts believe Akpoti-Uduaghan’s resistance to the change was fueled by political undercurrents, especially as she has positioned herself as a vocal advocate for inclusivity and fairness in legislative affairs.
In response to the seating dispute, Akpabio’s camp has downplayed the matter, suggesting that the Senate President was merely enforcing order within the chambers. However, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s defamation suit indicates that she sees the matter as more than just a routine legislative issue.
Political Implications and Public Reactions
The lawsuit has sparked reactions from various political observers and members of the public. Supporters of Akpoti-Uduaghan argue that the remarks made against her were sexist and aimed at undermining her credibility as a female legislator. Women’s rights groups have also weighed in, condemning what they see as an attempt to trivialize her contributions to the Senate.
Meanwhile, some political analysts speculate that this legal battle could have broader implications for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s career. By taking a firm stance against what she perceives as defamatory remarks, she is asserting her political strength and refusing to be sidelined. Others, however, argue that suing the Senate President could escalate tensions and affect her working relationship with key figures in the legislative body.
For Akpabio, the lawsuit presents a potential challenge, as it adds to the growing controversies surrounding his tenure as Senate President. While he has yet to publicly respond to the lawsuit, his supporters believe the case may not hold much ground in court and could be politically motivated.
Legal Precedents and Possible Outcomes
Defamation cases in Nigeria have historically been complex and difficult to prove, as claimants must demonstrate that the statements in question were false, malicious, and caused reputational damage. If Akpoti-Uduaghan succeeds in court, it could set the precedent for how lawmakers engage in public discourse and hold each other accountable for their words.
On the other hand, if the court dismisses the case, it could embolden political figures to continue making controversial statements without fear of legal repercussions.
The ruling could also shape future interactions between female lawmakers and their male counterparts in Nigeria’s political space.
As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on the judiciary to determine whether Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims hold merit.
The outcome could influence the dynamics of power within the Senate and set new standards for political decorum.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawsuit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio is more than just a legal battle—it is a test of accountability and respect in Nigerian politics. The case raises important questions about the boundaries of political discourse, gender representation in leadership, and the consequences of public statements made by high-ranking officials.
Whether the court rules in her favour or not, this lawsuit is sure to leave a lasting impact on the nation’s political landscape.
