In response to what he called a “criminally defamatory and inciting” accusation from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan that he was planning her assassination, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has formally petitioned Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
In the petition dated April 3 and copied to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Akpabio described the claims as “heinous lies” intended to damage his reputation, incite public unrest, and endanger his life.
The controversy stems from a public address by Akpoti-Uduaghan on April 1 in Kogi State, when she said that Akpabio had authorised former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to murder her within Kogi State in order to make it look like her people were behind the assault.
Responding to the accusation, Akpabio stated 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 added that the allegation, made without evidence, was politically motivated and designed to manipulate public sentiment.
“It is a calculated act of blackmail and character assassination, designed to portray me as a political villain,” he said.
Akpabio called for an immediate police investigation and urged the prosecution of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan under laws covering criminal defamation, incitement, false accusation, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.
The Senate President also stressed the impact of the allegation due to its widespread coverage on TV, radio, print, and social media.
“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.
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He concluded the petition by stating the need to hold public officials accountable for statements capable of undermining national peace and democratic institutions.
This latest clash between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan follows an earlier controversy in which she accused the Senate President of sexual harassment — a claim that contributed to her suspension from the upper legislative chamber for alleged misconduct.
