Renowned legal luminary Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, has looked into the sensational Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment claim against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and delivered a verdict of insufficient evidence.
Speaking to reporters in Lagos on Tuesday, Agbakoba said the pretty female senator’s story doesn’t add up.
“The allegation, as it stands, has too many contradictions and doesn’t meet the global standard for proving sexual harassment,” he said.
Agbakoba, who is also Akpabio’s lawyer, said it’s important to allow people to speak out. But he added that claims must still be backed by facts.
He revealed that Akpabio had asked him to send Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan a formal letter. The letter asks her to clear up what they say are conflicting parts of her story.
“This widespread coverage has damaged our client’s reputation locally and internationally,” the letter said.
“We are happy to allow you a reasonable time to clarify the contradictions we have referred, while our client reserves the right to all legal options.”
The Uyo Birthday Issue
Agbakoba pointed out a major timeline issue. He said Natasha claimed the harassment happened on December 8, 2023. But the next day, she praised Akpabio on social media.
“In her posts on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), she eulogised the Senate President and spoke glowingly about the birthday celebration,” he said.
“The juxtaposition of an alleged traumatic harassment followed by such public admiration requires careful consideration.”
He also said this isn’t the first time the senator has made similar claims.
Agbakoba referred to earlier allegations she made against ex-presidential aide Reno Omokri and a former minister. He said these should be considered when judging her credibility.
Call for Due Process
“Sexual harassment is a grave issue that demands a fair and rigorous examination,” Agbakoba said.
“We acknowledge the challenges faced by those making such claims, but also stress that due process through appropriate institutional mechanisms—not the media—is the proper route for addressing such allegations.”
This situation has caused new debates over how to handle serious claims by public figures—especially when there are questions around timing, motive, and the right process.
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