Akpabio clarifies N40Bn defamation suit against Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has clarified the defamation lawsuit he filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan, citing the senator’s persistent use of social media to make unsubstantiated accusations. According to a statement from Akpabio’s media office, the N40 billion suit was instituted more than three months ago, but its progress was delayed because Akpoti‑Uduaghan allegedly evaded court summons.

The statement explains that Akpabio exercised his constitutional right to seek legal redress after Akpoti‑Uduaghan made grave, unsubstantiated accusations capable of inflicting severe reputational damage. The allegations, which include claims of sexual misconduct, have never been supported by evidence before the Senate Committee or any competent authority. The court case was further delayed by routine administrative processes and judicial procedures.

When the court resumed activities, several attempts were made to personally serve Akpoti‑Uduaghan with the originating processes, but she allegedly evaded service. The court eventually granted an application for substituted service in November. Akpabio’s office has denied Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s claim that the lawsuit was filed recently, calling it false and intended to distort public understanding of the case.

The statement emphasizes that legal disputes are resolved in courtrooms, not through social‑media narratives or staged outrage. The Senate President’s office has called on Akpoti‑Uduaghan to present her evidence before a court of competent jurisdiction, rather than relying on sensationalised commentary. She is advised to properly instruct her lawyers, file her defence, and provide the evidence she claims to have for the allegations.

The lawsuit highlights the importance of resolving legal disputes through due process and the rule of law, rather than relying on social‑media platforms. The case is expected to proceed in court, where the facts and evidence will be scrutinised and a verdict delivered. The public and the media await Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s defence to the defamatory claims made against her.