Akpabio-and-Natasha.webp
The Digest:

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has stated that his N40 billion defamation suit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was filed over three months ago, attributing its recent prominence to her "fresh persistence" on social media and alleged evasion of court summons. In a detailed statement, Akpabio's office challenged her to present evidence in court rather than in the public domain.

Key Points:
  • Akpabio stated his N40bn defamation suit was filed over three months ago, not recently as claimed.
  • He attributed the suit's visibility to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan's renewed social media commentary.
  • The Senate President accused her of deliberately evading service of court documents, necessitating a substituted service order.
  • He described her allegations as "grave and unsubstantiated" and lacking evidence before any competent authority.
  • Akpabio emphasized that legal disputes should be resolved in courtrooms, not through "social-media theatrics."
  • The statement referenced her previous six-month Senate suspension, which she served in full.
  • He challenged her to present the evidence she claims to possess before a court of competent jurisdiction.
  • The lawsuit is framed as a constitutional exercise of his right to seek legal redress for reputational damage.

This escalating legal battle underscores the deepening rift between the two lawmakers, shifting the contentious allegations from the court of public opinion to the arena of judicial scrutiny.

Sources: Daily Post Nigeria, Akpabio's media office.