The Nigerian political landscape has been thrust into turmoil once again, as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the fiery representative of Kogi Central, has leveled grave accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and businesswoman Dr. Sandra Duru. In a move that has sent shockwaves through the corridors of power, Natasha has filed petitions with the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, demanding a thorough investigation into what she describes as a coordinated campaign of criminal defamation, cyber-stalking, conspiracy, and even attempted assassination. This explosive development on May 19, 2025, underscores the escalating tensions within Nigeria’s Senate and raises critical questions about political accountability, gender dynamics, and the misuse of state resources.
The Petitions: A Call for Justice
On May 15, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, through her legal counsel, Senator Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), submitted two meticulously crafted petitions to the IGP and AGF. These documents, as detailed in the Vanguard News article, outline a chilling narrative of orchestrated attacks aimed at tarnishing Natasha’s reputation and endangering her life. The petitions accuse Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Dr. Sandra Duru of masterminding a campaign that allegedly involves:
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Criminal Defamation and Cyber-Stalking: Natasha claims that Duru, operating under the pseudonym “Prof. Mgbeke,” initially posed as a supporter but later revealed ulterior motives. According to the petition, Duru demanded payment to fabricate narratives against Natasha. When Natasha refused to comply, Duru allegedly unleashed a barrage of defamatory content online, accusing Natasha of offering her ₦200 million to falsely implicate Akpabio in organ harvesting—a claim Natasha vehemently denies.
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Retaliatory Conspiracy: The petitions assert that Akpabio, one of Nigeria’s most powerful political figures, orchestrated this campaign as retribution for Natasha’s public accusations against him. In February 2025, Natasha had accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, a bold move that sparked widespread controversy. The petitions allege that Akpabio, leveraging his influence and state resources, collaborated with Duru and other proxies to silence Natasha and discredit her advocacy.
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Attempted Assassination: Perhaps the most shocking allegation is Natasha’s claim of an attempt on her life. The petitions cite evidence from public broadcasts, witness testimonies, media reports, and expert analyses to substantiate this charge. While specific details remain under wraps pending investigation, the gravity of this accusation underscores the high stakes of this political feud.
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Legal Violations: Natasha’s legal team argues that the actions of Akpabio, Duru, and their alleged collaborators violate multiple Nigerian laws, including those related to defamation, cybercrime, and conspiracy. The petitions call for a comprehensive investigation into the roles of all parties involved, including third-party collaborators, to ensure justice is served.
Natasha’s legal team emphasized that the evidence presented—ranging from digital footprints to witness accounts—paints a clear picture of a deliberate and malicious campaign. The petitions are not merely a defensive maneuver but a bold demand for accountability at the highest levels of Nigerian governance.
Who is Dr. Sandra Duru?
At the heart of Natasha’s petitions is Dr. Sandra Duru, a businesswoman whose alleged role as “Prof. Mgbeke” has added a layer of intrigue to this saga. According to the petitions, Duru initially approached Natasha under the guise of support, only to later demand payment for fabricating narratives. When Natasha refused, Duru allegedly turned hostile, launching a vicious online campaign to discredit her.
The claim that Natasha offered Duru ₦200 million to falsely accuse Akpabio of organ harvesting is particularly sensational. Natasha’s legal team has dismissed this accusation as a fabrication, arguing that it was designed to portray her as a corrupt and manipulative figure. The petitions further allege that Duru’s actions were not independent but part of a broader conspiracy orchestrated by Akpabio to neutralize Natasha’s influence.
Duru’s involvement raises questions about the role of proxies in Nigerian politics. The use of pseudonyms like “Prof. Mgbeke” to spread disinformation online is a growing concern, as social media platforms become battlegrounds for political warfare. Natasha’s petitions call for a thorough investigation into Duru’s activities, including her digital footprint and potential ties to other actors in the alleged conspiracy.
What Happens Next?
As of May 19, 2025, the ball is in the court of the IGP and AGF. Natasha’s petitions call for a swift and thorough investigation into the roles of Akpabio, Duru, and their alleged collaborators. The evidence cited—public broadcasts, witness testimonies, media reports, and expert analyses—will likely play a critical role in shaping the investigation.
Public reaction has been polarized, with some praising Natasha’s courage and others questioning her motives. Social media platforms, including X, are abuzz with discussions about the case, though no definitive consensus has emerged. The court order barring public statements from Natasha and Akpabio may limit further commentary, but the petitions themselves ensure that this story will remain in the spotlight.
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