ABUJA, Nigeria — Senate President Godswill Akpabio has formally petitioned the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, requesting an investigation into allegations made by suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who accused him of plotting her assassination.
In the petition dated Thursday, April 3, 2025, Akpabio vehemently denied the allegations, which were made public by Akpoti-Uduaghan during a homecoming event in Kogi State on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
The former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs called for the prosecution of Akpoti-Uduaghan for criminal defamation, accusing her of making a “heinous lie” that has had severe consequences for his reputation.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s accusations were broadcasted widely, including on radio and social media platforms, where she claimed that Akpabio had instructed former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and current Governor Usman Ododo to have her assassinated in Kogi, rather than in Abuja.
She further alleged that the plan was to make it appear as if her constituents were responsible for her death.
In his petition, Akpabio described these allegations as “reckless” and politically motivated, asserting that there was no basis for the claims and no evidence to support them.
He said the accusation was a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation, incite political unrest, and endanger his safety.
“I categorically state that this allegation is entirely false, unfounded, and politically motivated,” Akpabio wrote.
“It is a calculated act of blackmail and character assassination, designed to portray me as a political villain.”
The Senate President also emphasised the broader impact of the false allegation, noting the potential for it to destabilise the political climate and disrupt democratic institutions.
He called for urgent action from law enforcement agencies, urging them to treat the matter seriously given the widespread media coverage.
Akpabio’s petition also requested that Akpoti-Uduaghan be prosecuted under relevant legal provisions for criminal defamation, incitement, false accusations, and conduct likely to breach public peace.
He reiterated that the statement was part of a calculated effort to manipulate public sentiment and harm both his office and personal standing.
