- Lawmaker challenges alleged derogatory remarks from Senate leadership
- Suit cites reputational damage from social media publication
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken legal action against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of defamation over remarks allegedly published by his aide on Facebook.
The lawsuit, filed at the Federal Capital Territory High Court on February 25, 2025, names Akpabio, the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and his Senior Legislative Aide, Mfon Patrick, as defendants.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, Victor Giwa, contends that a Facebook post titled “Is the Local Content Committee of the Senate Natasha’s Birthright?” contained derogatory statements aimed at discrediting his client. The post allegedly suggested that the senator viewed legislative work as merely an opportunity to “pancake her face and wear transparent outfits to the chambers.”
Giwa described the comments as defamatory, provocative, and damaging to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reputation, arguing that they diminished her standing among colleagues and the public.
Backdrop of the Dispute
The legal battle follows a controversy over the reassignment of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Senate seat, which resulted from a chamber reshuffle after opposition lawmakers defected to the majority. She strongly opposed the move, leading to a confrontation with Akpabio.
Now, with the lawsuit underway, the case is set to test the boundaries of free speech, political discourse, and the accountability of public officials in Nigeria.
