Two High Courts in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have separately summoned Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Chief Whip Onyekachi Nwaebonyi over alleged defamation, sexual harassment, and breach of fundamental rights. The lawsuits were filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a suspended senator representing Kogi Central.
Suit Against Nwaebonyi
In Suit No: FCT/HC/CV/1359/25, Akpoti-Uduaghan is seeking N5 billion in damages for defamation over claims that she bore six children for different men. According to court documents, Nwaebonyi allegedly made false and malicious statements about Akpoti-Uduaghan during a televised interview on Channels TV’s “Sunrise Daily” program on March 6, 2025. Nwaebonyi reportedly described Akpoti-Uduaghan as a “gold digger,” a “habitual liar,” and a “habitual blackmailer,” without any lawful justification.
The court, presided over by Justice A.O. Otaluka, granted Akpoti-Uduaghan leave to serve Nwaebonyi with court processes through substituted means. The case has been adjourned to June 25, 2025.
Suit Against Akpabio
In Suit No: FCT/HC/CV/754/2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan accuses Akpabio of sexual harassment and defamation through his aide, Mfon Patrick. She is seeking N100 billion in general damages and N300 million in litigation costs from Akpabio’s aide.
The court, presided over by Justice Abubakar Idris Kutigi, granted Akpoti-Uduaghan leave to serve Akpabio and his aide with court processes. The case has been fixed for June 9, 2025, for report of service.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Claims
Akpoti-Uduaghan claims that Nwaebonyi’s statements severely damaged her reputation, causing her significant emotional distress and subjecting her to public embarrassment and harm to her credibility. She also alleges that Akpabio’s aide defamed her character and that Akpabio himself sexually harassed her.
Akpoti-Uduaghan is currently serving a six-month suspension from the Senate. In her lawsuit against Nwaebonyi, she is seeking a perpetual injunction restraining him from further publishing or causing the publication of defamatory statements about her.
The cases against Akpabio and Nwaebonyi highlight the ongoing challenges faced by women in politics and the need for accountability and respect for individuals’ rights and dignity. As the cases progress, it remains to be seen how the courts will rule on these serious allegations.
