LAGOS, Nigeria – Renowned Nigerian lawyer and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, has expressed concerns over the sexual harassment allegation made against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Agbakoba, who also serves as Akpabio’s legal counsel, described the claim as containing significant contradictions, stating that, as it currently stands, the allegation does not meet the threshold required to prove sexual harassment.
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, Agbakoba emphasized that while individuals should feel safe to voice their concerns, the principles of justice—requiring evidence and fairness—must always be upheld.
He noted that, based on the available facts, the allegation against Akpabio “falls short of the threshold for proving sexual harassment anywhere in the world.”
The lawyer further highlighted key inconsistencies in Akpoti-Uduaghan’s account of events, particularly the timeline of her accusations.
According to Agbakoba, the suspended Senator had publicly praised Akpabio on social media just a day after the alleged incident.
“Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan claims she was sexually harassed by the Senate President on December 8, 2023. However, just one day later, on December 9, 2023, she posted favourable messages about him on her social media platforms, including Instagram and X (formerly Twitter),” Agbakoba pointed out.
In her posts, Akpoti-Uduaghan had expressed admiration for Akpabio, praising his leadership and speaking warmly about a birthday event she had attended in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, which Akpabio hosted.
Agbakoba described the juxtaposition of the alleged harassment with the subsequent public expressions of admiration as a “significant timeline contradiction” that warrants careful scrutiny.
As Akpabio’s legal representative, Agbakoba wrote a formal letter to Akpoti-Uduaghan on behalf of his client, requesting clarification on the contradictions in her allegations.
He noted that the widespread media coverage of the accusations had damaged Akpabio’s reputation both locally and internationally.
“We are happy to allow you a reasonable time to clarify the contradictions that we have referred to, while our client reserves the right to all legal options,” Agbakoba stated in the letter.
While speaking at the press briefing, Agbakoba acknowledged the sensitivity of sexual harassment allegations and the challenges faced by those making such claims.
However, he stressed that allegations must be carefully examined to ensure fairness to all parties involved.
He also referenced previous allegations made against figures like Reno Omokri and an unnamed minister, noting that although each case should be treated individually, the pattern of the suspended Senator’s behavior raised important questions.
“Sexual harassment is a serious matter that deserves careful and fair consideration. We acknowledge the difficulty faced by anyone making such allegations and the importance of treating all parties with dignity. Our review of the available public records reveals significant contradictions that must be considered for a fair evaluation of the situation,” Agbakoba said.
The former NBA President concluded by reiterating the importance of addressing such serious matters through proper institutional processes rather than media forums, emphasizing the need for an objective and thorough examination of the facts.
