Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, husband of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has spoken out against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of breaking a promise to stop harassing his wife.
The dispute, which initially stemmed from a disagreement over seating arrangements in the Senate, has escalated after Natasha accused Akpabio of sexual harassment. She claimed that the Senate President blocked her motions in retaliation for rejecting his alleged advances.
Currently suspended and referred to the Senate Ethics Committee, Natasha, who represents Kogi Central, maintains that Akpabio has used his position to undermine her work. In response, Akpabio’s wife, Unoma, has come to his defense, calling him a disciplined man and warning that legal action may be taken against Natasha.
Unoma Akpabio has since filed two lawsuits at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja.
- In the first case (Suit No: CV/814/25), she accuses Natasha of making defamatory statements that have caused emotional distress for her and her children. She seeks ₦250 billion in damages and a court injunction preventing further statements.
- In the second case (Suit No: CV/816/25), she refutes Natasha’s allegations as false and malicious. She demands a public apology in The Guardian and ThisDay newspapers, as well as ₦1 billion in damages.
In a statement on Saturday, Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri Kingdom, revealed that his wife had confided in him about Akpabio’s alleged advances. He said he personally confronted Akpabio, who assured him that he would stop. However, Uduaghan claims the harassment has continued.
“I personally met with the Senate President and respectfully urged him to extend the courtesy and respect my wife deserves, while also honoring the friendship between us,” Uduaghan stated.
“We reached an understanding and agreed to resolve the issue amicably. However, despite this agreement, my wife continues to express concerns about the harassment she has endured.
“I have unwavering faith in my wife’s loyalty and am fully committed to our marriage, which is grounded in love, compassion, and mutual respect.
“I now respectfully urge the Senate and the Senate President to treat my wife with the dignity she deserves while the courts determine the underlying issues.”
Background of the Dispute
Tensions between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Akpabio have been brewing for months. A major flashpoint occurred when Akpabio likened Natasha’s approach to discussing the revival of the Ajaokuta Steel Complex to a “nightclub.”
During a Senate plenary, Natasha attempted to speak on a motion without obtaining permission, violating Senate standing orders. In response, Akpabio stated that the Senate is not a nightclub where anyone can speak at will and urged her to follow the rules.
His remarks sparked backlash, with many accusing him of dismissing a serious economic issue in a sexist manner.
The controversy has now spiraled into legal battles and a deepening political crisis, with Senator Natasha’s suspension and ongoing accusations intensifying tensions within the National Assembly.
