In a powerful response to recent developments, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken a firm stand against what she calls a misrepresentation of facts surrounding her sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Her response, which comes in the face of mounting legal and political pressure, outlines her unwavering commitment to letting the courts determine the matter.
This development is a critical moment in Nigerian politics, one that brings legal accountability, gender advocacy, and power dynamics in governance into sharp focus.
Natasha’s Calm but Firm Response to Legal Pressure
On April 30, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan formally responded to a letter from Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association.
Agbakoba had, in a letter dated April 14, 2025, requested that Senator Natasha retract her sexual harassment allegations against Akpabio and provide evidence of the alleged misconduct, which she claimed occurred on December 8, 2023.
However, Senator Natasha made it clear that she never received such a letter through post, courier, or personal service. She emphasized that any claim of intentional silence was unfounded and misleading.
“I place it on formal record that no such letters have ever been served upon me. The imputation of recalcitrance is therefore inoperative,” she stated.
Invoking the Legal Principle: Matters Before the Court
Senator Natasha further explained that she had chosen silence earlier due to the legal doctrine of lis pendens, which discourages public commentary on ongoing legal cases.
According to her, two lawsuits are currently active:
1. Suit CV/816/2025 – Filed by the wife of Senate President Akpabio at the FCT High Court, seeking ₦250 billion in damages, and directly tied to the sexual harassment allegations.
2. Suit FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025 – Filed by Natasha at the Federal High Court in Abuja, challenging her controversial suspension from the Senate.
She clarified that while one of the suits is unrelated to the sexual harassment claim, the other is at the heart of the matter, making public discussions inappropriate and legally risky.
Sub Judice Rule: Accusing Agbakoba of Hypocrisy
Senator Natasha didn’t hold back when calling out what she described as a double standard on Agbakoba’s part.
She accused him of invoking the sub judice rule to halt a Senate investigation into the matter, only to later turn around and seek to litigate the issue in public.
“A litigant may not approbate in the courts and reprobate in the press,” she said pointedly.
This statement underscores her stance that the court not the court of public opinion should be the final authority on the matter.
Upholding Justice and Fairness: No One Is Above the Law
The Senator also accused Senate President Akpabio of violating the principle of natural justice by presiding over his own case.
She referenced the Latin legal maxim, Nemo judex in causa sua”No one should be a judge in their own case.”
She argued that Akpabio’s role in the Senate’s decision to suspend her was unethical and demonstrated a clear conflict of interest, especially since her suspension directly affects her ability to pursue the sexual harassment claim within the legislative chamber.
Consent vs. Civility: A Crucial Distinction
One of the most humanizing and thought-provoking parts of Senator Natasha’s response came when she addressed claims that her previous friendly interactions with Akpabio undermined her allegations.
She passionately clarified that civility should never be mistaken for consent or comfort. This powerful statement highlights a broader societal misunderstanding about how victims of workplace harassment navigate professional settings where power dynamics are skewed.
“To do so trivialises a serious concern of sexual harassment, especially in a workplace where there is a dominant power dynamic,” she added.
Who Has the Authority? Rebutting Agbakoba’s Demand
Senator Natasha also dismissed Agbakoba’s demand for evidence outside judicial proceedings.
She noted that a private lawyer regardless of reputation does not possess constitutional or statutory powers to demand evidence or enforce compliance in such matters.
“A private legal practitioner, however distinguished, is not vested with adjudicatory authority under the Constitution or any statute of the Federal Republic,” she wrote.
Her statement serves as a stern reminder that legal procedures must be respected, and judicial processes cannot be replaced by media campaigns or public letters.
Holding Her Ground: No Retraction in Sight
Senator Natasha reaffirmed her commitment to pursuing justice through appropriate legal channels. She stood by her formal complaint lodged on February 28, 2025, and emphasized that she would not retract any part of her story.
“This letter is issued solely to correct the public record and to prevent a constructive admission being inferred from silence,” she concluded.
She further instructed that all future correspondence be routed through her legal representatives, signaling that she intends to let the law take its course without external pressure or political distractions.
Implications for Nigerian Politics
This unfolding legal battle could have long-lasting implications for Nigeria’s political landscape.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s case brings attention to the treatment of women in politics, the abuse of power, and the limitations of internal legislative procedures in addressing sensitive issues.
Her fight for justice could embolden other women in leadership roles to speak up, reinforcing the importance of gender equity, accountability, and respect within the nation’s governance systems.
A Call for Legal Integrity
At the heart of Natasha’s case is a call for legal integrity and due process. Her insistence that the courts are the only legitimate venue for determining guilt or innocence is a powerful counter to the growing trend of trial-by-media.
It’s a reminder that justice in a democracy must be rooted in established legal frameworks, not personal influence or public perception.
Final Thoughts: A Defining Moment in Nigerian Governance
Senator Natasha’s unwavering stance is not just a personal declaration—it’s a bold political statement about fairness, equality, and the sanctity of Nigeria’s judicial system.
As this case unfolds, it will continue to spark national dialogue about sexual harassment in high office, ethical leadership, and the rule of law.
For Nigerians watching closely, this case isn’t just about Natasha or Akpabio—it’s about setting a precedent that no one, regardless of their position, is above accountability.
Stay with NIGPOST as we continue to bring you in-depth updates and analyses on this unfolding story.
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Author: Fatima Ibrahim
Date: May 1, 2025
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