Alleged defamation: Senator Natasha sues Akpabio for N100b

The case was submitted to the Federal Capital Territory High Court today, listing Akpabio and his senior legislative aide, Mfon Patrick, as the second and third defendants.

Through her lawyer, Victor Giwa, Akpoti-Uduaghan cited a Facebook post by Akpabio’s aide titled, “Is the local content committee of the Senate Natasha’s birthright?”

... included remarks suggesting that she believed being a lawmaker was merely about applying makeup and wearing revealing outfits to the Senate chambers.

Giwa argued that the statement was defamatory, derogatory, and damaging to her reputation, lowering her esteem among her colleagues and the public.

The lawsuit seeks a declaration that the statements were defamatory and intended to bring public disrepute upon Akpoti-Uduaghan.

She also requested a court order preventing the defendants or their associates from making further defamatory statements against her.

Additionally, Akpoti-Uduaghan is demanding ₦100 billion in damages and ₦300 million to cover litigation costs.

Her legal action follows a recent dispute over a Senate seating reshuffle, which she opposed, leading to a confrontation with Akpabio.

In response to the conflict, she has been referred to the Senate Disciplinary Committee.