Natasha Hits Back as Akpabio Petitions Police over Assassination Claim

In a strongly worded petition dated April 3 and also forwarded to the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Akpabio described the senator's allegation as “a heinous lie” and “a deliberate act of blackmail” aimed at tarnishing his image and inciting political violence.

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In a dramatic escalation of political tensions in Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber, the suspended senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has fired back at Senate President Godswill Akpabio after he formally petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, accusing her of defamation, incitement, and endangering public peace.

The controversy stems from a bold claim made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on April 1, in which she accused Akpabio of plotting her assassination in collaboration with former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. According to her, the plan was allegedly designed to look like an attack orchestrated by her own constituents in Kogi State. The statement quickly drew national attention, especially given her ongoing six-month suspension from the Senate.

In a strongly worded petition dated April 3 and also forwarded to the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Akpabio described the senator’s allegation as “a heinous lie” and “a deliberate act of blackmail” aimed at tarnishing his image and inciting political violence.

“This statement is not only a heinous lie but a reckless and deliberate attempt to damage my reputation, endanger my life and security, and incite political unrest,” the Senate President wrote.



The development has since sparked debates on freedom of expression, political persecution, and the safety of public officials—especially women—in the political arena.


Reacting to the petition, Natasha’s legal representative, Victor Giwa, SAN, confirmed that she had received the petition and responded appropriately. He described her statement as a “desperate cry for help” rather than a political gimmick.

“She has received the petition and has responded. What happened when she made that statement was her crying out to the general public to understand what she is exposed to,” Giwa said.



He also condemned the withdrawal of the senator’s security details, describing the action as dangerous and irresponsible, particularly in the current political climate.

“Even if you suspend a senator, what does that have to do with withdrawing security? She remains a politically exposed person. She has a life outside the Senate chamber. Her safety should not be compromised,” he argued.



This latest dispute underscores broader concerns about the treatment of female politicians in Nigeria, especially when they challenge the status quo. Natasha’s political career has been marked by bold activism and vocal opposition to what she describes as systemic political intimidation in Kogi State and beyond.

Observers say the timing of her accusation and Akpabio’s petition could be part of a larger pattern of political suppression. Several civil society groups have called for an independent investigation into the claims made by both parties to ensure that justice and transparency prevail.

Pro-Akpabio Group Defends Senate President

Meanwhile, a pro-Akpabio advocacy group, the Movement for National Accommodation and Consensus for Continuity (MONACCO), has launched a nationwide campaign aimed at reshaping public perception of the Senate President.

Speaking at a press briefing in Gusau, Zamfara State, the group’s National President, Salisu Isah, dismissed Natasha’s allegations as “politically motivated” and part of a coordinated effort to discredit Akpabio’s leadership in the Senate.

“Senator Akpabio is not someone who should be caught in such allegations. The issue with Senator Natasha has been politicised by those trying to divide the Senate for selfish reasons,” Isah stated.



He described the Senate President as a humorous, down-to-earth leader whose personality is often misunderstood.

>l“He is a man who likes to joke. Unfortunately, many, especially women, misinterpret his simplicity. I remember an encounter with him in 2003 alongside the then National Women Leader of MONACCO. His interaction was respectful, playful—but never malicious,” Isah added.


Drawing from local and international parallels, Isah referenced controversial statements made by former U.S. President Donald Trump and Nigeria’s former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, to emphasize the importance of responsible speech in politics.

“Words can be powerful. Careless talk can cost a life. Leaders need to be careful,” he cautioned.



MONACCO’s campaign is expected to tour all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, targeting youth groups, traditional leaders, and political stakeholders with a message centered on unity, media responsibility, and respect for institutional leadership.


While the Nigeria Police Force is yet to issue an official response to Akpabio’s petition, sources within the Force Headquarters in Abuja confirmed that the matter is under preliminary investigation. If the police pursue a criminal defamation or incitement case, it could spark a legal battle with far-reaching implications for parliamentary privilege and freedom of speech.

Legal experts also warn that if not properly handled, the case could intensify regional political rivalries and deepen distrust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.


As the controversy between Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Godswill Akpabio unfolds, Nigerians watch closely to see whether this political face-off will lead to accountability or be swept under the rug as another episode of elite conflict. What is clear, however, is that the allegations have already triggered critical questions about gender, power, safety, and truth in Nigerian politics.

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