Nigeria’s Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has strongly refuted recent allegations made by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central, describing her claims as “false, malicious, and a calculated smear campaign.”
In a statement released by his media aide, Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio categorically denied accusations that he collaborated with former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to assassinate Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Allegations Spark Controversy
Speaking at a rally in Kogi earlier in the week, Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that the Senate President conspired with Yahaya Bello to have her assassinated “in Kogi rather than in Abuja.” The Kogi State Government has since dismissed the allegation as baseless.
Akpabio Responds: ‘Outrageous and Dangerous Accusation’
Senator Akpabio condemned the accusation, labeling it a dangerous fabrication meant to incite public unrest and tarnish his reputation.
“This outrageous accusation is not only false but a complete fabrication—a deeply irresponsible and dangerous attempt to provoke unrest, attract media attention, and discredit the office of the Senate President for ulterior motives,” Akpabio stated.
He also recalled that Akpoti-Uduaghan had previously made unsubstantiated sexual harassment claims against him, which she allegedly abandoned without clarification.
“Her pattern of unfounded allegations, including similar claims against other dignitaries, reflects a disturbing trend of misinformation and personal vendetta,” the Senate President added.
Former Senator Elisha Abbo Also Blames Akpabio
In a related development, former Adamawa North Senator Elisha Abbo also accused Akpabio of engineering his removal from the National Assembly following a Court of Appeal ruling in October 2023. Abbo made these claims during a live interview on Arise Television, asserting that Akpabio was running the Senate “like an emperor.”
Akpabio dismissed these accusations as “coordinated and politically motivated,” suggesting a deliberate campaign to undermine his leadership.
“The timing, tone, and similarity of these attacks clearly indicate a coordinated effort aimed at distracting the public and damaging the credibility of the Senate,” the statement said.
Legal Action Underway
Senator Akpabio revealed that formal letters of demand are being prepared and will be sent to both Akpoti-Uduaghan and Abbo. These letters will seek:
- Immediate public retractions
- Formal apologies
- Compensation for reputational damage
“Senator Akpabio remains focused and undeterred. These coordinated campaigns will not distract him from his constitutional duties,” the statement concluded.
