Akpabio Petitions IGP Over Alleged Assassination Claim by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Akpabio Petitions IGP Over Alleged Assassination Claim by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has formally petitioned the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to investigate what he describes as a false and defamatory assassination allegation made against him by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. In the petition, dated April 3, 2025, Akpabio also called for Akpoti-Uduaghan's prosecution on charges of criminal defamation. A copy of the letter was also sent to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.

The controversy erupted after Akpoti-Uduaghan made an explosive statement during a homecoming event in Ihima, Kogi State, on April 1. She accused Akpabio of allegedly instructing former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and the current Governor Usman Ododo to orchestrate her assassination in Kogi State, with the intent of framing her constituents for the crime.

Akpabio has strongly denied the accusation, calling it a "heinous lie" and an attempt to tarnish his reputation and endanger his life. He described the allegation as politically motivated, baseless, and aimed at inciting unrest.