By John Umeh
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has firmly rejected the suggestion of an out-of-court settlement in the ongoing harassment case involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio, asserting her commitment to seeking justice through due legal process.
Her response comes in reaction to comments made by senior lawyer and human rights advocate, Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), who recently proposed a conciliatory resolution to the dispute. Agbakoba had urged both parties to consider dialogue rather than prolonged litigation, citing national interest and the need to de-escalate tensions within the political space.
However, in a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday, Senator Natasha made it clear that she will not entertain any form of private settlement in a matter she described as fundamental to the protection of women’s rights and dignity in Nigeria’s political sphere.
“This is not a personal quarrel to be hushed behind closed doors,” Natasha stated. “This case goes beyond me; it is about accountability, institutional integrity, and the safety of women participating in politics. We cannot normalize intimidation or sweep misconduct under the rug for the sake of political convenience.”
The Kogi Central lawmaker had earlier accused Senate President Akpabio of making derogatory and intimidating remarks against her on the floor of the Senate, an act she claims amounts to harassment and abuse of privilege. The incident drew national attention and sparked debates about gendered treatment in the legislative chamber.
Despite calls for reconciliation, Natasha insisted that legal redress is the appropriate channel to address the alleged wrongdoing and to set a precedent that discourages the misuse of power in public office.
“I appreciate Chief Agbakoba’s efforts to promote peace, but justice must be seen to be done. Women in Nigeria must know that they can speak out and be protected,” she added.
Senator Akpabio has yet to issue a direct response to Natasha’s recent statement, though his office has previously dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.
As the case continues to unfold, it underscores the growing tension between the demand for accountability and the culture of political compromise in Nigeria’s governance space.
