The lawsuits, filed before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, stem from allegations of sexual harassment leveled against her husband, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, by Akpoti-Uduaghan during an interview on Arise News on February 20, 2025.
Violation of Fundamental Rights
In the first suit (Suit No: CV/814/25), Mrs. Akpabio argues that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s public statements violated her fundamental rights as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Citing Section 34(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), she is seeking the following legal remedies:
- A declaration that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s remarks violated her rights and caused her and her children emotional and psychological distress.
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A perpetual injunction restraining Akpoti-Uduaghan from making further defamatory or inciteful statements against her.
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₦250 billion in damages for the alleged harm caused by the statements.
Defamation Lawsuit
In a separate defamation suit (Suit No: CV/816/25), Mrs. Akpabio contends that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s accusations have irreparably damaged her reputation and that of her family. She argues that the senator’s claims made on national television have tarnished her family’s image and brought them into public disrepute.
She is demanding:
- A court declaration affirming that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s statements were defamatory.
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An order compelling Akpoti-Uduaghan to issue a formal written retraction and an unconditional apology to be published in two national newspapers.
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₦1 billion in punitive and exemplary damages for reputational harm.
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A perpetual injunction preventing Akpoti-Uduaghan from making further defamatory statements.
Legal Battle Escalates Political Tension
The lawsuits follow a heated exchange between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Akpabio during a Senate session. Akpoti-Uduaghan later took the dispute to a televised interview, where she accused Akpabio of making inappropriate advances toward her an allegation that has now triggered legal action from his wife.
This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing rift between the two senators and could have broader political implications.
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Olawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
