Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has lodged a formal complaint with Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi, accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Dr. Sandra Duru of orchestrating a malicious campaign against her.
The petition, dated 15 May 2025 and filed by her counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Sen Ehiogie West-Idahosa, alleges criminal conspiracy, defamation, cyber-stalking, and an attempted assassination.
It is backed by evidence from public broadcasts, witness testimonies, media reports, and expert analyses.
Akpoti-Uduaghan claims the accusations against her are false and designed to undermine her reputation and work.
“I fear for my safety and that of my family due to the harassment and intimidation,” she stated.
The petition accuses Dr. Duru, who allegedly posed as “Prof. Mgbeke,” of initially posing as a supporter before demanding payment to frame narratives and rally digital support.
When Akpoti-Uduaghan refused, Duru allegedly launched a character assassination campaign.
Further allegations point to Senator Akpabio’s motive, stemming from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s February 2025 public accusation of sexual harassment against him. The petition suggests Akpabio retaliated using proxies and resources to harm her.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team insists the evidence reveals a deliberate effort to malign and endanger their client. “We believe the actions amount to a criminal enterprise violating multiple laws,” they said.
The senator has urged the authorities to investigate third-party collaborators who endorsed the defamatory broadcasts, to determine their role in the alleged conspiracy.
In her submission, Akpoti-Uduaghan called for a thorough investigation, urging the police and Attorney General to ensure justice is served, regardless of the status of those involved.