Emmanuel OchayiSenator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has asked Unoma Akpabio, wife of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, to stay out of the allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation against her husband.
The dispute between Natasha and the Senate President began after she refused to sit in a designated seat during a Senate session, citing Order 10 of the Senate Standing Rules. The issue escalated when she appeared on Arise News, alleging that Akpabio had blocked her motions, intimidated her, and maligned her after she rejected his advances.
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Unoma Akpabio Dismisses Allegations
Following Natasha’s claims, Unoma Akpabio held a press conference in Abuja, where she dismissed the allegations against her husband. She stated that both families had enjoyed a cordial relationship for years, even before Natasha got married. She described the allegations as baseless and misleading.
Unoma’s reaction sparked further controversy, leading Natasha to respond with a letter dated March 1, 2025. The letter, addressed to Mrs. Akpabio through her lawyer, Victor Giwa, warned her to stay out of the matter.
Natasha’s Letter to Unoma Akpabio
In her letter, Natasha made it clear that the accusations were personal to the Senate President and that he should defend himself. 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,” she advised Unoma to refrain from getting involved.
Part of the letter read: “Our client is not desirous of calling you out into the unfortunate saga concerning her allegations against the Senate President, and wishes that you restrain yourself from delving into the obscene circumstances. While she has tolerated all the harassment from the Senate President, she was constrained to reveal the unfortunate torture and victimisation which she has been going through in the red chambers under the hand of the Senate President.”
Natasha insisted that Akpabio had the capacity to defend himself against the allegations and should do so without his wife’s involvement.
Natasha Claims to Have Evidence
The senator further stated that she had concrete evidence to back up her claims. She urged Unoma to allow her husband to respond to the allegations to protect her own mental well-being and family’s stability. “Our client has concrete evidence to substantiate her allegations. We will suggest that you leave the defence of the allegations for the Senate President to maintain your sanity and that of your family.”
She reaffirmed her commitment to defending Nigerian women and upholding family values despite the ongoing controversy.
Growing Political Tension
The rift between Natasha and Akpabio has drawn attention from various political groups. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter. Additionally, critics have faulted Unoma Akpabio for involving herself in the dispute.
Meanwhile, Unoma Akpabio has taken legal action against Natasha, filing a defamation lawsuit and demanding ₦250 billion in damages.
The dispute continues to stir reactions, with many waiting to see how the Senate President will respond to Natasha’s accusations.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
