Senate President’s Wife Addresses Senator Natasha’s Allegations of Sexual Harassment

A dramatic clash has unfolded in Nigeria’s political sphere as Unoma Akpabio, wife of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, responds to serious accusations leveled against her husband by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The Kogi Central senator recently claimed that Akpabio retaliated against her legislative efforts after she rejected what she alleges were inappropriate advances from him. These explosive statements, made during a television interview, have sparked a heated rebuttal from Unoma, who staunchly defends her husband’s character and dismisses the allegations as fabrications.

The Genesis of the Dispute

The controversy erupted when Senator Natasha appeared on Arise TV on February 28, 2025, shedding light on what she described as a troubling encounter with Akpabio. According to her account, the issue traces back to December 8, 2023, during a visit to the Senate President’s residence in Akwa Ibom. Natasha alleges that Akpabio made unwelcome sexual overtures in the presence of her husband, an incident she claims marked the beginning of her difficulties in the Senate. She further accused Akpabio of stifling her legislative initiatives, such as motions concerning the Ajaokuta Steel Company, as a form of punishment for her refusal to acquiesce.

This narrative gained traction amid an earlier clash in the Senate chamber over seating arrangements, where Natasha resisted a reassignment, leading to a confrontation with Akpabio. The incident, which saw her removed from the floor, fueled speculation about deeper tensions between the two lawmakers. Natasha’s subsequent television appearance amplified these tensions, framing her experience as a case of systemic retaliation rooted in personal rejection.

Unoma Akpabio’s Firm Denial

Unoma Akpabio wasted no time in addressing these claims, holding a press conference at her Abuja residence on the same day as Natasha’s interview. She categorically rejected the senator’s accusations, portraying them as baseless and motivated by ulterior motives. “My husband is a disciplined and jovial man who respects his family and has a long history of supporting women in governance,” Unoma declared, emphasizing that the allegations were a misrepresentation of Akpabio’s character.

She pointed to a pre-existing cordial relationship between their families, noting that this bond predated Natasha’s marriage. “Both families have enjoyed a long-standing friendship,” Unoma stated, suggesting that the claims were inconsistent with their history. She further argued that she was present at their residence on the alleged date of the incident, casting doubt on Natasha’s timeline. Unoma accused the senator of “creating content” for personal gain, implying that the allegations were a calculated move rather than a reflection of reality.

Unoma’s defense extended beyond personal anecdotes, highlighting Akpabio’s track record as governor of Akwa Ibom State. She cited his inclusion of women in key governmental roles during his tenure, arguing that no such complaints emerged then. “He is a responsible leader who has always uplifted women,” she insisted, framing the current accusations as an outlier lacking precedent or credibility.

Legal Action and Broader Implications

The Senate President’s wife didn’t stop at verbal rebuttals. Reports indicate that she has escalated the matter by filing lawsuits against Natasha at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja. These legal actions, comprising a fundamental rights suit and a defamation case, seek a combined N350 billion in damages. In the fundamental rights suit, Unoma alleges that Natasha’s statements violate her dignity and have caused emotional distress to her family, invoking constitutional protections and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The defamation suit demands a retraction, an apology in national newspapers, and significant punitive damages for the alleged harm to the Akpabio family’s reputation.

This legal move underscores the gravity with which Unoma views the situation, signaling her intent to clear her husband’s name through judicial means. It also raises the stakes in an already contentious dispute, potentially setting the stage for a prolonged courtroom battle.

Natasha’s Counterresponse

Senator Natasha has not backed down in the face of these denials and legal threats. In a letter dated March 1, 2025, penned by her lawyer Victor Giwa, she cautioned Unoma against interfering in the matter, asserting that the allegations pertain solely to Akpabio and that he should defend himself. “I have concrete evidence to substantiate my claims,” Natasha stated, urging Unoma to refrain from involvement to preserve her own peace of mind and that of her family. She positioned herself as a defender of Nigerian women, vowing to uphold family values while standing firm on her accusations.

This response highlights Natasha’s resolve and suggests that she is prepared to present her case, possibly in the ongoing Senate Ethics and Public Petitions Committee investigation or in court if the lawsuits proceed. Her insistence on evidence adds another layer of intrigue, leaving observers eager to see what substantiation, if any, she might produce.

Public and Political Reactions

The saga has drawn varied reactions from political figures and the public. Akpabio’s media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo, dismissed Natasha’s claims as “tissues of lies,” linking them to her frustration over losing a Senate committee chairmanship rather than any misconduct by the Senate President. Meanwhile, Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory, offered a nuanced perspective on Arise TV, noting that Natasha had a prior personal relationship with Akpabio, unlike other female senators. Kingibe acknowledged the Senate’s lack of gender-friendliness but urged adherence to its rules, subtly critiquing Natasha’s approach.

Broader commentary, including from Phrank Shaibu, an aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has questioned Unoma’s dismissal of the allegations, framing it as an inadequate response to a serious issue. Social media posts on X reflect a mix of skepticism and support, with some users echoing Unoma’s defense of her husband’s character, while others demand a thorough probe into Natasha’s claims.

What Lies Ahead

As of March 1, 2025, this confrontation remains unresolved, with the Senate’s ethics committee yet to release findings and the courts still to schedule hearings for Unoma’s lawsuits. The outcome could have significant implications for Akpabio’s leadership, Natasha’s credibility, and the broader discourse on gender and power in Nigerian politics. Whether this escalates into a defining moment of accountability or fizzles out as a political spat depends on the evidence presented and the institutions’ responses.

For now, the public watches as two prominent figures—Unoma Akpabio and Senator Natasha—stand their ground, each claiming truth and integrity in a dispute that has captivated Nigeria’s political landscape. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds, and feel free to share your perspective on this contentious issue!