Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President Dr. Olisa Agbakoba has publicly disputed the sexual harassment allegations made by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, calling the claims “contradictory” and insufficient to meet global legal standards for proof.
Key Arguments Against the Allegations
🔍 Timeline Inconsistencies:
- Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged harassment on December 8, 2023, but publicly praised Akpabio on December 9, 2023 via Instagram and X (Twitter).
- Agbakoba highlighted her “warm, celebratory tone” in posts lauding Akpabio’s birthday event in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, just 24 hours post-incident.
🔍 Legal Threshold Not Met:
- Agbakoba stressed that the allegations lack “evidence and fairness” required for legal credibility.
- Cited “pattern” of prior accusations by Akpoti-Uduaghan against ex-presidential aide Reno Omokri and an unnamed minister.
🔍 Formal Legal Challenge:
- Sent a letter demanding Akpoti-Uduaghan clarify contradictions.
- Warned Akpabio reserves the right to pursue “all legal options” for reputational damage.
Agbakoba’s Press Conference Highlights
⚖️ On Due Process:
“Sexual harassment claims deserve dignity, but media trials undermine justice. Institutional channels—not social media—should address such serious matters.”
⚖️ On Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Actions:
“How does one allege trauma on Friday, then praise the accused on Saturday? This timeline defies logic and requires explanation.”
Context & Implications
- Akpoti-Uduaghan, suspended Senator for Kogi Central, made headlines globally with her allegations.
- Akpabio’s camp claims the posts damaged his reputation “locally and internationally.”
- Case renews debate over Nigeria’s handling of harassment claims and “media trials.”
Call to Action
👉 Share to spark balanced debate on legal accountability vs. victim advocacy.
👉 Comment: Should harassment claims be tried publicly or privately?
👉 Follow for updates on this developing legal and political drama.
#JusticeMatters #NigeriaSenate #LegalEthics
Why This Matters
- Tests Nigeria’s legal framework for handling high-profile harassment cases.
- Highlights risks of reputational damage in court-of-public-opinion trials.
- Raises questions about political motivations behind allegations.
“When timelines clash, truth becomes collateral damage.” – Legal Analyst, Abuja
Stay Informed | Stay Critical | Demand Fair Process
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