Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Petitions IGP, Demands Probe into Alleged Defamation Plot by Akpabio, Sandra Duru

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has formally petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, urging a thorough investigation into what she describes as a calculated campaign of defamation, cyberbullying, and attempted character assassination. The petition, dated May 15, 2025, was filed through her legal representative, Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), and names Senate President Godswill Akpabio and U.S.-based media personality Sandra Duru—known online as “Prof. Mgbeke”—as key figures in the alleged scheme.

According to Vanguard, the senator’s legal team outlines a series of coordinated actions they claim were initiated after she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment. The petition lists accusations including conspiracy, cyberstalking, and even an attempted assassination, all allegedly executed through a network of political associates and online figures.

The document notes that following her suspension from the Senate, a Facebook account under the alias “Prof. Mgbeke” began gaining the senator’s trust by advocating for women in politics. Akpoti-Uduaghan, believing the account was operated by a credible academic, reached out in appreciation. However, she alleges that things soured after she rejected a proposal from “Mgbeke” to manage her public image for a fee and manipulate public narratives in her favor.

After declining the offer, Akpoti-Uduaghan claims the online personality launched a vicious smear campaign. She later discovered through a May 1, 2025 broadcast and supporting investigations that “Prof. Mgbeke” was actually Dr. Sandra Duru, a Nigerian national residing in Texas.

The senator’s legal team argues that this identity deception served as the foundation for a broader attack on her integrity and safety. The petition includes what is said to be substantial evidence—ranging from witness statements and media records to digital forensics—showing a planned operation intended to damage her reputation and endanger her life.

Among the most alarming claims is a list of suspicious call logs and contacts such as “My Daddy Directline,” “IGP Kayode,” “Senator Akpabio,” “CP Imo Aboki Danjuma,” and “Senator Ned Nwoko,” which the petition suggests indicates a wider web of collusion involving top political and security officials.

Of particular concern is the role of Mr. Monday Ubani, SAN, Senator Akpabio’s aide and legal counsel in the ongoing sexual harassment inquiry. Ubani has reportedly praised “Prof. Mgbeke” following her controversial broadcast—one that the senator’s team says incited public unrest and promoted false narratives.

One of the broadcast’s most inflammatory claims was that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was part of a conspiracy to “remove the Yoruba government.” Her lawyers assert that this allegation not only misrepresented her intent but also qualifies as incitement and conspiracy to commit a treasonable felony.

The petition calls for immediate protective measures for Akpoti-Uduaghan and key witnesses, as well as a forensic review of digital content and records related to the case. It further urges the police to pursue everyone connected to the alleged plot, regardless of their rank or political standing.

Framing the matter as more than a defamation case, the senator’s legal team insists it is a politically charged attempt to punish a female lawmaker for speaking out against misconduct in high places. They are demanding justice, full transparency, and legal accountability.