![Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. [PHOTO CREDIT: Business Day]](https://crediblenewsng.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/download-1.jpeg)
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has rejected a proposed out-of-court settlement in her case against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The settlement was suggested by senior lawyer Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), counsel to Akpabio, who stated that he accepted the brief in a conciliatory manner and hoped to resolve the matter amicably.
Agbakoba urged Akpoti-Uduaghan to provide further evidence to support her claims of sexual harassment, stressing that the allegations, while serious, must be properly substantiated to meet legal standards.
He pointed to inconsistencies between her allegations and her behavior after the alleged incident. While the senator claimed she was harassed on December 8, which coincided with her birthday and Akpabio’s, she later posted positive comments about the Senate President on social media after attending his birthday event in Uyo.
“The timeline and dates are contradictory,” Agbakoba said. “On one hand, you complained about harassment on December 8. On the other, you praised Akpabio on December 9.”
The senior lawyer emphasized the need to avoid weaponizing serious accusations, stressing that justice demands fairness, dignity, and a presumption of innocence.
However, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed the proposal, insisting on a thorough investigation into her claims.
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“Out-of-court settlement? To settle how? Who? What about how I felt?” she asked. “I don’t think I’m looking for an out-of-court settlement for today. As of now, it is out of it.”
She noted that the issue goes beyond personal redress, saying it is about justice and accountability. “Nobody should suffer this level of intimidation for speaking their truth,” she said.
The Kogi Central lawmaker argued that Akpabio’s actions not only undermine her dignity but also tarnish the image of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“They should have investigated it. It’s not about settlement, it’s about justice. Akpabio is denting the image of the President,” she said.
Agbakoba maintained that proper institutional processes, not media narratives, are the appropriate venue for addressing such serious matters.
While he acknowledged the difficulty victims face in coming forward, he underscored that evidence must guide the pursuit of justice in all cases.
The Conclave
