Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of attempting to suppress her freedom of speech over a satirical letter she posted online. The controversy arises amidst ongoing legal battles following Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension from the Senate.
In her satirical post, Akpoti-Uduaghan addressed allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio. She contends that the court order preventing both parties from publicly discussing the case applies strictly to her suspension, not the harassment allegations. Despite this, Akpabio has taken legal action, seeking to compel her to delete the post and issue a formal apology.
The dispute has intensified as Akpoti-Uduaghan alleges that Akpabio is using legal tactics to delay judicial proceedings, thereby prolonging her suspension. She argues that such actions erode public trust in the judiciary and undermine her return to the Senate. Meanwhile, Akpabio’s legal team maintains that her post violated the court’s gag order and insists on legal repercussions.
The case is scheduled for a hearing on May 12, where the court will review pending applications. Political analysts believe that this legal battle has broader implications for free speech and political accountability in Nigeria.
