Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Files N100.3bn Defamation Suit Against Akpabio

ABUJA – Federal lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has filed a defamation lawsuit amounting to N100.3 billion against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The case, lodged at the Federal Capital Territory High Court (FCT), Abuja, stems from allegations of reputational damage caused by a social media post.

According to Akpoti-Uduaghan, Akpabio published a defamatory post on Facebook through his aide, Mfon Patrick, titled: “Is Local Content Committee of the Senate Natasha’s Birthright?” The post allegedly ridiculed her, suggesting she misunderstood legislative duties, emphasizing superficial appearance rather than governance.

The lawsuit, referenced as CV/737/25, also names Mfon Patrick, identified as Akpabio’s Senior Legislative Aide, as a co-defendant. Akpoti-Uduaghan asserts that the publication tarnished her reputation, portraying her in a derogatory manner that undermined her credibility among colleagues and the public.

Legal Demands and Court Reliefs

Through her legal representative, Mr. Victor Giwa, Akpoti-Uduaghan has requested the court to:

Mandate an immediate retraction of the defamatory post.
Compel a public apology to be published in a widely circulated national newspaper.
Declare the Facebook post defamatory, asserting that it was deliberately crafted to provoke public disrepute.
Issue a perpetual injunction restraining Akpabio and his aide from publishing similar statements in the future.
Award general damages of N100 billion for reputational harm and an additional N300 million for litigation expenses.

Background and Context

This lawsuit follows a prior confrontation between Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate President over the unauthorized reassignment of her seat in the Senate. Reports indicate that the seat adjustment occurred due to the defection of opposition lawmakers to the ruling party. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s protest against this move escalated, leading Akpabio to instruct security personnel to escort her out of the legislative chamber, a decision that sparked widespread public debate.

Conclusion

As of now, the court has yet to set a hearing date for the case. The unfolding legal battle highlights ongoing political tensions within the Senate, drawing national attention.