Nigerian Senator Shocked by Government’s Defamation Lawsuit Over Assassination Plot Allegations

By Wedaeli Chibelushi & Yemisi Adegoke | BBC News

Senator Learns of Lawsuit Through Media Reports

Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has expressed shock after discovering through news reports that the government filed defamation charges against her. The lawsuit stems from her allegations that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello plotted to kill her.

“I’m actually shocked. My first reaction when I read it is out of shock, because I have not been served [with papers] until now. I had to read it on the news,” Akpoti-Uduaghan told the BBC.

Contentious Allegations and Denials

In April, the senator claimed in a Channels TV interview that there were “discussions that Akpabio had with Yahaya Bello… to eliminate me.” Both politicians have vehemently denied these allegations.

The Attorney General’s charge sheet, obtained by the BBC, argues these statements could damage the reputations of Akpabio and Bello. However, Akpoti-Uduaghan maintains her position, having previously filed police petitions about the alleged threats to her life.

Ongoing Political Controversy

This legal action follows Akpoti-Uduaghan’s February accusation that Akpabio sexually harassed her – another claim he denies. The senator believes the defamation charges represent an attempt to intimidate her into silence.

“It’s an ill that has been normalized in society – sexual harassment. But here I am speaking about it… that was my first offense. Natasha is not supposed to speak about it. I’m supposed to bear it as a woman,” she stated.

Gender Representation in Nigerian Politics

The case highlights gender equality issues in Nigeria’s conservative political landscape. Akpoti-Uduaghan is one of only four female senators in the 109-member chamber.

After her sexual harassment allegations, she received a six-month suspension without pay for “unruly and disruptive” behavior during Senate proceedings – a punishment she and supporters view as retaliation.

No court date has been set for the defamation case, which continues to generate national debate about political accountability and women’s rights in Nigeria.

Additional reporting by Nkechi Ogbonna and Chukwunaeme Obiejesi in Lagos

Source: BBC News