Senate President Godswill Akpabio has filed a N200 billion defamation suit against Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator for Kogi Central, over sexual harassment allegations made against him. The case was instituted at the FCT High Court, Abuja, and is scheduled to commence on January 21, 2026.

Akpoti-Uduaghan confirmed the suit on December 5, 2025, describing it as an opportunity to substantiate her claims. She stated on Facebook:

“Alas, I now have a chance to prove how I was sexually harassed and how my refusal to give in to his demands unleashed a series of unprovoked and unprecedented attacks on my person.”

The court issued an order on November 6, allowing Akpoti-Uduaghan to be served via substituted means through the clerk of the National Assembly.

The allegations originate from a February Arise TV interview, in which Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed Akpabio made sexual advances toward her in his office and residence in Akwa Ibom, and that her difficulties in the Senate began after she rejected the advances. Akpabio has denied all allegations.

Tensions between the lawmakers reportedly began after prior clashes on the Senate floor over seating arrangements, preceding the public accusations.