Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has filed a fresh petition to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio and social media influencer Dr. Sandra Duru of criminal conspiracy, defamation, and cyber-related offenses.
The petition, dated May 15, 2025, alleges that Akpabio and Duru orchestrated a malicious campaign against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan involving defamation, cyber-stalking, and an attempted assassination. Duru, who operated under the pseudonym “Prof. Mgbeke,” initially posed as a supporter but later demanded payment to fabricate narratives and rally digital support. When Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan declined, Duru allegedly launched a character assassination campaign.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stated, “The allegations against me are false and part of a conspiracy to undermine my work and reputation. I fear for my safety and that of my family due to the harassment and intimidation.”
Her legal team emphasized that the evidence will demonstrate a deliberate effort to malign and endanger their client through false accusations. The petition also suggests that Akpabio’s motive for retaliation stems from Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s public accusation of sexual harassment against him in February 2025.
The petition requests a comprehensive investigation into the individuals involved in planning, funding, and executing the campaign. It calls for the questioning of Dr. Sandra Duru and other implicated parties, forensic examination of electronic evidence including doctored audio recordings and digital files, and urgent security measures to protect Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and key witnesses.
Furthermore, the petition urges authorities to examine the statements and actions of third-party collaborators who publicly endorsed the defamatory broadcasts to determine their knowledge and participation in the conspiracy.
The senator’s legal counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Ehiogie West-Idahosa, described the actions against their client as a criminal enterprise violating multiple laws and appealed for justice to be swiftly dispensed regardless of the status of those involved.
This petition intensifies the ongoing dispute between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Akpabio, who himself had earlier petitioned the police alleging defamatory claims by the senator. The case continues to attract significant public and legal attention.
