Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a ₦5 billion defamation lawsuit against Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi. The lawsuit stems from Nwaebonyi's comments on Channels TV's Sunrise Daily, where he allegedly claimed Akpoti-Uduaghan has six children with different men, labeling her a "gold digger," "habitual liar," and "blackmailer". He also allegedly stated that her husband married her under duress .
Nwaebonyi's comments were made during a nationally televised interview on March 6, 2025, and were later shared on social and online platforms. Akpoti-Uduaghan claims these statements were false, malicious, and intended to destroy her reputation. She argues that the remarks portrayed her as someone who manipulates relationships for financial gain, extorts individuals, and lies frequently.
Akpoti-Uduaghan is seeking a perpetual injunction restraining Nwaebonyi and his associates from making or repeating the defamatory statements. She also wants a full retraction and public apology published in at least two national newspapers within seven days of the court's judgment. In addition to ₦5 billion in damages for reputational harm and emotional trauma, she is asking for post-judgment interest of 10% per annum until the sum is fully paid.
Nwaebonyi is a member of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, which Akpoti-Uduaghan believes raises concerns about his motive. The case is expected to test the bounds of public commentary by political figures and could have far-reaching implications for political discourse in Nigeria .
Page Manager
