March 02, (THEWILL) – The Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel O. Uduaghan, has spoken out on the ongoing rift between his wife, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
THEWILL earlier reported how a disagreement over seating arrangements in the Senate escalated into a heated confrontation between Natasha and Akpabio, leading to her referral to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for disciplinary action.
However, in a recent interview on Arise TV, Natasha accused Akpabio of victimizing her for rejecting his alleged sexual advances.
“My refusal to yield to his consistent advances, both within and outside the country, is the reason behind the victimisation I face in the Senate. It all started on the 8th of December 2023, a day before our birthdays; we are birthday mates,” she claimed.
While Akpabio has remained silent on the allegation, his wife, Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, denied the claims and filed a N251 billion defamation lawsuit against Natasha.
Reacting in a statement on Saturday, Uduaghan said unnecessary sentiments were being stirred to divert attention from the serious allegations against the Senate President.
He disclosed that Natasha had informed him about her interactions with Akpabio, whom he initially regarded as a family friend.
“In response, I handled the matter with maturity and responsibility, as it is my duty as a traditional leader who respects constituted authority and upholds core family values,” he said.
Uduaghan revealed that he personally met with Akpabio and urged him to respect his wife while maintaining their friendship. Both men, he claimed, reached an understanding and agreed to resolve the issue.
However, he alleged that despite this agreement, Natasha continued to face harassment from the Senate President.
Describing Natasha as a devoted wife, Uduaghan reaffirmed his trust in her and her commitment to truth.
“My wife was duly elected by her people due to their love, respect, and confidence in her. She is focused on delivering quality representation to her district and the nation at large.
“I have unwavering faith in my wife’s loyalty and remain fully committed to our marriage, which is built on love, compassion, and mutual respect. She is the greatest joy of my life,” he stated.
Uduaghan called on the Senate and Akpabio to treat Natasha with dignity while the legal process runs its course.
“I urge the Senate and the Senate President to accord my wife the respect and dignity she deserves while the appropriate authorities and the court determine the underlying issues,” he said.
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