No Out-of-Court Settlement”: Prof. Mgbeke and Agbakoba Respond to Natasha Akpoti’s Allegations Against Senate President Akpabio
In the ongoing controversy surrounding the sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, new developments have emerged challenging the accuracy of certain public narratives. One of the most notable rebuttals has come from Prof. Mgbeke, who took issue with interpretations suggesting that an out-of-court settlement was being considered by the legal team representing Akpabio. Prof. Mgbeke specifically addressed comments made by renowned journalist Dr. Reuben Abati, describing them as incorrect and misleading.
According to Prof. Mgbeke, there has been no indication from Akpabio’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former Nigerian Bar Association President, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, that any form of out-of-court settlement is being contemplated. In a strongly worded response shared publicly, Prof. Mgbeke stated that Dr. Abati’s interpretation of recent events did not reflect the legal team’s actual position. She maintained that the matter will be pursued to its conclusion through the appropriate judicial channels.
This clarification follows a recent press briefing in Lagos by Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, who addressed the allegations in detail and questioned the credibility of Senator Natasha’s claims. While reiterating support for women’s rights and efforts to combat sexual harassment, Agbakoba stressed the importance of fairness, factual accuracy, and due process. He cited what he called “dangerous inconsistencies” in the timeline and public behavior of Senator Natasha following the alleged incident.
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Dr. Agbakoba pointed out that while Natasha claimed she was sexually harassed on December 8, 2023, she went on to publish glowing social media tributes to Senate President Akpabio the very next day, on December 9, in celebration of his birthday. He argued that this behavior significantly contradicted the image of someone recently traumatized by a serious incident. The senior lawyer further referenced past instances where Natasha had made allegations against public figures which were later retracted or unresolved, including one against a presidential aide in 2021 and another against an unnamed minister, both of which had been questioned for lack of follow-through or clear evidence.
While he refrained from directly accusing Senator Natasha of fabricating her story, Agbakoba emphasized that such contradictions undermine the gravity of her claim and warrant a careful, thorough examination by the court. He reiterated that his legal team does not intend to resolve the matter privately and is fully prepared to contest the allegations openly through legal proceedings.
The allegations by Senator Natasha have generated strong reactions across the country, with supporters hailing her for speaking up while critics question the motives and consistency behind her claims. Gender advocacy groups have largely expressed solidarity with Natasha, urging that her allegations be investigated without prejudice, even as they acknowledge the need for impartial judicial scrutiny.
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Observers have noted the political dimensions of the case, particularly in the context of the high offices held by the two parties. Senate President Akpabio is a central figure in Nigeria’s legislative leadership and a member of the ruling party, while Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been known for her outspokenness and legal activism, making their legal confrontation even more high-profile. Analysts also suggest that the case could have long-term implications for both figures’ political standing, especially if the courts issue a ruling that strongly supports or discredits either party’s claims.
Despite mounting public interest and media speculation, both parties have maintained that they are committed to pursuing justice through lawful means. The public statements made by Agbakoba and Prof. Mgbeke appear to dispel any expectation of a quiet settlement or withdrawal. Rather, the indications are clear that the matter will be litigated thoroughly, with both sides presenting evidence and witnesses to support their positions.
Meanwhile, media coverage of the case has also come under scrutiny. Prof. Mgbeke criticized certain media outlets, particularly local television stations, for what she described as biased reporting and a lack of journalistic responsibility. She said her focus remains on engaging with reputable international media organizations to provide a broader, balanced perspective on the issue. In her words, she described the media frenzy around Natasha and her allies—referred to as G and H—as a “circus” that has now collapsed under the weight of scrutiny and exposure.
Prof. Mgbeke further emphasized that the attention of the global community is now focused on the case, and she believes that accountability will follow in accordance with the law. Her commentary concludes by framing the case not as a battle of narratives but as a pursuit of truth and justice, insisting that justice will ultimately prevail.
With both the Senate President and the Senator from Kogi Central set to meet in court, expectations are high that the proceedings will offer the public clarity on what truly transpired. Legal analysts anticipate a complex legal process involving not just testimonial evidence but also digital communications and character evaluations. Depending on the outcome, further actions such as defamation suits or disciplinary proceedings may follow.
For now, the legal battle appears far from over. What is clear, however, is that both sides are digging in, each determined to validate their claims and protect their reputations. As Nigerians and the international community watch, this case is shaping up to be one of the most significant legal-political showdowns of the year.
Dr. Reuben Abati, with all due respect, this information is inaccurate. Dr. Agbakoba (SAN) did not propose or request any out-of-court settlement with Natasha.
Regarding Agbakoba’s statement during yesterday’s press briefing, it appears there is no intention of pursuing an out-of-court settlement in the ongoing dispute. His firm stance signals a commitment to seeing this matter resolved through the proper legal channels.DR. OLISA AGBAKOBA, SENATOR AKPABIO’S LEAD COUNSEL TAKES NATASHA’S EVIDENCE TO THE CLEANERS – UNCOVERS WHAT HE DESCRIBED AS “DANGEROUS INCONSISTENCIES” IN HER CLAIMSProminent lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba has raised doubts over Natasha Akpoti’s sexual harassment claim against Akpabio, citing key inconsistencies.Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, stepping into the spotlight, has raised eyebrows over what he called “serious inconsistencies” in the sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.At a press briefing in Lagos, Agbakoba, who is leading the legal team defending Akpabio, called for a balanced and evidence-based handling of the matter. While reaffirming his full support for the fight against gender-based abuse, he stressed the need for fairness, clarity, and due process.“We respect and support of the global and national efforts to create a safe and respectful environment for all, especially women in public life; however, we must also uphold the principles of justice, which require fairness, objectivity, and evidence.”Agbakoba pointed to what he described as a “glaring contradiction” in Senator Natasha’s timeline. According to her, the incident occurred on December 8, 2023. Yet, the following day, she made glowing social media posts praising Akpabio and reflecting on his birthday celebration.“This juxtaposition — an alleged traumatic incident followed by voluntary public eulogies, presents a contradiction that must be carefully examined,” he said
He also referenced her past public allegations, including a 2021 claim against a presidential aide that was later withdrawn, and a video where she accused an unnamed minister. While not dismissing the current allegation based on her history, Agbakoba disclosed that her evidence contradicts her voluntary public eulogies toward Akpabio on his birthday which the alleged incident took place. Rather than being traumatized over the incident but she hipped encomiums on Akpabio, reflecting a contrast of her claim, Agbakoba said.
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