Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused the camp of Senate President Godswill Akpabio of attempting to circulate damaging materials against her. This allegation was made via a Facebook post, following the circulation of a video by social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM). Akpoti-Uduaghan shared a screenshot of a WhatsApp conversation containing a link to the VDM video and a request for recommendations of national newspapers and blogs that could publish the content.
The WhatsApp conversation screenshot shared by Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly read: “Please which national dailies and blogs can this fly? I need like 5 and the cost implications.” Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio’s office of attempting to use media platforms against her. She addressed Akpabio directly, stating, “Dear Godswill Akpabio, Senate President of the Nigerian 10th Assembly… you may take the envelope and publish whatever Akpabio’s office sends to you.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan warned Akpabio that the alleged pits he digs for her would be his own downfall, stating, “S.P. Akpabio, know that the pits you dig for me, you shall very well fall into.” The senator, however, did not identify the person behind the alleged WhatsApp conversation or provide independent evidence establishing who initiated the communication.
The latest development is part of a prolonged dispute between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio, which began in 2025. The disagreement initially centered on her seating arrangement in the Senate. The dispute later escalated after Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and victimisation, allegations that Akpabio has denied.
The Senate subsequently suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan over alleged violations of its rules, a decision that generated widespread reactions. Akpoti-Uduaghan has been vocal about her grievances, and this recent allegation against Akpabio's camp is part of a larger pattern of public accusations and counter-accusations between the two.
The situation highlights the ongoing tensions within Nigeria's political landscape, particularly within the Senate. The public nature of the dispute and the allegations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan have drawn significant attention, reflecting the complexities and challenges of political interactions at the highest levels.
The dispute between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio remains unresolved, with both parties continuing to engage in public exchanges. The implications of this ongoing conflict for their political careers and the broader political environment in Nigeria remain to be seen.
Key points
- Akpoti-Uduaghan accuses Akpabio's camp of smear campaign.
- The dispute between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio began in 2025.
- Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended by the Senate over alleged rule violations.
