Friday, April 11, 2025 - Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has filed a formal petition to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, calling for the investigation and prosecution of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over what he describes as a “criminally defamatory and inciting” allegation.
The petition, dated April 3 and also addressed to the
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi
(SAN), centers on claims made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan during a public
address in Kogi State on April 1. In her speech, she alleged that Akpabio had
instructed former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to assassinate her within
the state, in an attempt to make it appear as though the attack came from her
own constituents.
Akpabio strongly refuted the allegations, stating in his
petition:
“This statement is not only a heinous lie but a reckless and
deliberate attempt to damage my reputation, endanger my life and security, and
incite political unrest.”
He further described the claims as politically motivated and
devoid of evidence, branding them as a calculated act of blackmail and
character assassination.
Calling for immediate action, Akpabio urged law enforcement
agencies to investigate the matter and prosecute Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan under
relevant laws, including criminal defamation, incitement, false accusation, and
conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.
He emphasized the far-reaching impact of the allegation due
to its extensive coverage across television, radio, newspapers, and social
media platforms.
“The severity of this false allegation, and the fact that it
has gained public traction, makes it necessary that law enforcement agencies
treat it with the urgency it deserves,” he said.
Akpabio concluded his petition by stressing the importance
of holding public officials accountable for statements capable of undermining
national peace and democratic institutions.
This development follows a previous controversy between the
two senators, during which Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan accused the Senate President
of sexual harassment—an allegation that contributed to her suspension from the
Senate over alleged misconduct.
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