Akpabio Demands Retraction, Apology from Senators Natasha, Abbo; Threatens Legal Action Over ‘False’ Allegations

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has vehemently denied allegations of assassination plots and judicial manipulation leveled against him by Senators Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and former Senator Elisha Abbo, threatening legal action unless they retract their statements and issue public apologies.
Akpabio, in a statement released Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, dismissed the accusations as “malicious, false, and baseless,” asserting they are part of a coordinated smear campaign to discredit his leadership.
Assassination Allegations Denied
Specifically, Akpabio refuted Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims that he enlisted former Governor Yahaya Bello to assassinate her, labeling the accusation “outrageous” and a “dangerous and provocative fabrication.” Eyiboh also pointed out Akpoti-Uduaghan’s history of making unsubstantiated accusations, including a previous claim of sexual harassment against Akpabio, which she later abandoned.
Abbo’s Claims Rejected
Akpabio also dismissed Abbo’s allegations that he manipulated the judiciary to remove him from office, reminding the public that Abbo had retracted similar claims in 2023, admitting they were based on false assumptions. The Senate President’s office emphasized that Abbo’s removal was a result of a constitutionally grounded court ruling.
Legal Action Threatened
Eyiboh stated that formal letters of demand are being prepared, seeking immediate public retractions, apologies, and compensation for alleged reputational damage from both Akpoti-Uduaghan and Abbo.
Akpabio’s Response: Focus on National Unity
Akpabio, through his spokesperson, reiterated his commitment to national unity, institutional integrity, and the rule of law, stating he will not be distracted by “malicious falsehoods or inflammatory rhetoric.”
He called on Nigerians and the international community to reject what he described as “baseless, provocative narratives” and instead focus on the Senate’s efforts to promote legislative excellence and democratic values.
Senator Natasha Stands Firm
In a swift response, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan declared she would “never apologize for speaking my truth.”
The situation has escalated tensions within the Nigerian Senate, with Akpabio’s office suggesting a politically motivated effort to undermine the Senate’s leadership.