Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and her husband, Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, are threatening to sue Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, the Deputy Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, over alleged defamatory remarks made during a recent television interview.
Lawyers representing the couple have issued a formal demand for a public apology from Senator Nwaebonyi, warning that legal proceedings will commence if he fails to comply within 14 days.
In a letter dated March 27, 2025, the legal team representing Chief Uduaghan, a prominent businessman and high chief, and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, accused Senator Nwaebonyi of making damaging statements during an interview aired on News Central TV and its affiliated platforms.
During the interview, Senator Nwaebonyi allegedly suggested that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has a history of making false sexual harassment accusations and implied that her marriage to Chief Uduaghan was not based on genuine affection. These statements, which have circulated widely on social media, are described as a deliberate attempt to damage the reputation of both individuals.
The legal letter emphasizes the serious implications of Senator Nwaebonyi’s remarks, stating that they falsely portray Chief Uduaghan as a victim of blackmail and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan as a person of questionable moral character. The solicitors argue that these statements have caused significant reputational damage, leading to distrust and embarrassment among their associates.
The demand notice requires Senator Nwaebonyi to issue a written public apology within 14 days. The apology must be broadcast on News Central TV and widely disseminated across social media platforms. Failure to meet this demand will result in legal action against the senator.
This development follows Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s submission of an affidavit to the Senate Ethics Committee as evidence in her petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, whom she has accused of sexual harassment, abuse of office, and obstruction of legislative duties.
Senator Nwaebonyi, in his interview with News Central, dismissed Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims, referencing a previous accusation she made against former presidential aide Reno Omokri. He questioned the veracity of her allegations and seemingly attempted to shame her by referencing her marital history.
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