Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio's camp of attempting to push damaging materials against her. This allegation comes after the circulation of a video by social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM). In a Facebook post, Natasha shared a WhatsApp conversation containing a link to the VDM video and a message seeking recommendations for national newspapers and blogs that could publish the content.
The WhatsApp message in the screenshot allegedly asked for recommendations on national dailies and blogs to publish the content, along with the cost implications. Natasha accused Akpabio's office of attempting to use media platforms against her, warning that such moves would eventually backfire. She expressed her concerns about the alleged plot to tarnish her image.
In her Facebook post, Natasha addressed Senate President Godswill Akpabio directly, stating that the pits he digs for her would eventually be his own downfall. She wrote, "Dear Godswill Akpabio, Senate President of the Nigerian 10th Assembly… you may take the envelope and publish whatever Akpabio’s office sends to you." This public response highlights the ongoing tensions between Natasha and Akpabio.
The development comes amid a prolonged political dispute between Natasha and Akpabio, which began in 2025. The disagreement started over Natasha's seating arrangement in the Senate chamber and later escalated after she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and victimisation. Akpabio denied these allegations, and the Senate subsequently suspended Natasha, citing violations of legislative rules.
The suspension triggered widespread public reactions, with many Nigerians expressing their opinions on social media. Natasha's supporters argued that her suspension was a result of her speaking out against Akpabio's alleged misconduct. The incident sparked a national debate about the role of women in Nigerian politics and the challenges they face.
Natasha did not provide further details on the identity of the person behind the alleged WhatsApp message or independently verify who initiated the conversation. However, her public response suggests that she is prepared to face the challenges ahead and is not intimidated by the alleged smear campaign.
The incident highlights the deep-seated tensions within the Nigerian Senate and the complexities of Nigerian politics. As the situation continues to unfold, many Nigerians will be watching closely to see how the drama between Natasha and Akpabio plays out.
Key points
- Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accuses Senate President Godswill Akpabio's camp of a smear campaign against her.
- The dispute between Natasha and Akpabio began in 2025 over seating arrangements and escalated into allegations of sexual harassment and victimisation.
- Natasha warns that the alleged plots against her will backfire, saying "the pits you dig for me, you shall very well fall into."
