Defamation or Gendered Attack | The Akpoti-Uduaghan Lawsuit and Nigeria’s Political Landscape

Defamation or Gendered Attack? The Akpoti-Uduaghan Lawsuit and Nigeria’s Political Landscape

By Emmy,

The recent legal battle between Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio has sparked a heated debate beyond the corridors of the National Assembly. With a staggering N100 billion defamation lawsuit filed against Akpabio and his aide, Mfon Patrick, the case transcends mere political rivalry—it highlights the persistent challenge of gender-based disparagement in Nigerian politics.

But at its core, is this just another political feud, or does it expose the systemic belittling of women in leadership?


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The Alleged Defamation: A Political Clash Turns Personal

At the heart of the controversy is a Facebook post by Akpabio’s senior legislative aide, Mfon Patrick, following a heated exchange between the Senate President and Akpoti-Uduaghan over her refusal to switch seats in the Senate chamber.

The post, titled “Is the Local Content Committee of the Senate Natasha’s Birthright?”, allegedly questioned the senator’s understanding of legislative procedures. However, what stands out is a particularly demeaning comment implying that her role as a senator was limited to “pancaking her face and wearing transparent outfits to the chambers.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan contends that this statement was not only defamatory but deliberately crafted to diminish her credibility, mock her intelligence, and expose her to public ridicule. The lawsuit demands:

N100 billion in general damages

N300 million in litigation costs

A restraining order preventing further defamatory statements


While defamation claims in Nigerian politics are not uncommon, this case carries deeper implications.


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Beyond Defamation: The Politics of Feminine Debasement

Nigeria’s political landscape remains a tough terrain for women, who often face sexist attacks disguised as political criticism. From Dame Patience Jonathan’s ridiculed public speeches to Senator Remi Tinubu’s past confrontations, female politicians are frequently subjected to a level of scrutiny and derogation that their male counterparts rarely experience.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s case is a glaring example. Instead of critiquing her legislative contributions, the alleged post reduced her to her appearance—a classic tactic used to undermine women in power. This is not just an attack on her; it’s an attack on every woman striving for a seat at the political table.

Would a male senator have been accused of merely “powdering his face” while executing his duties?


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The Senate’s Response: Ethics or Witch-Hunt?

In a twist that raises further questions, the Senate has now referred Akpoti-Uduaghan’s refusal to switch seats to its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. Chaired by Senator Neda Emasuen, the committee has two weeks to investigate and make recommendations.

But does this move signal an impartial disciplinary process, or is it an attempt to stifle her outcry? Many critics argue that the focus should be on the substance of her lawsuit, not on penalizing her for standing her ground.

Her absence from the plenary session on Tuesday also fuels speculation about possible political isolation tactics.


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A Call for Accountability: Will This Case Set a Precedent?

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawsuit is not just about personal vindication—it could set a precedent for how Nigerian women in politics are treated. If the court rules in her favor, it would send a strong message against gender-based defamatory attacks. However, if dismissed, it could embolden political figures who resort to sexist rhetoric to discredit female politicians.

For a country that boasts of democracy, shouldn’t political debates focus on competence rather than cosmetic appearances?

As the legal battle unfolds, this case will test Nigeria’s commitment to gender equity in governance. Will it be a turning point or just another episode in the long history of feminine debasement in Nigerian politics?

What are your thoughts? Does this lawsuit signal progress, or is it another battle that will fade into history? Drop your comments below!