Top lawyer questions timeline in Natasha’s harassment claim, urges facts over feelings

At a press briefing held at his Apapa law chambers on Tuesday, April 15, respected senior lawyer Dr. Olisa Agbakoba raised serious concerns about what he described as “major inconsistencies” in Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Agbakoba, who is leading Akpabio’s legal defense, spoke carefully about the sensitive nature of the issue. While voicing strong support for the fight against gender-based harassment, he also stressed that such cases must be handled with fairness, facts, and due process.

“We respect and support the global and national efforts to create a safe and respectful environment for all, especially women in public life,” Agbakoba said. “However, we must also uphold the principles of justice, which require fairness, objectivity, and evidence.”

One of the main points he raised was the timeline. According to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the alleged harassment took place on Friday, December 8. Yet, Agbakoba pointed out, the very next day, Saturday, December 9, she made public posts on social media that praised Akpabio and commented positively on his birthday celebration in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.

“This juxtaposition — an alleged traumatic incident followed by voluntary public eulogies — presents a contradiction that must be carefully examined,” he said.

Agbakoba’s team also referenced previous accusations made by the senator — including a 2021 claim against a former presidential aide that was later withdrawn, and another case involving an unnamed minister in a public video.

He made it clear that prior incidents don’t automatically discredit current ones. But, he argued, they do make consistency and corroboration even more important in public accusations.

The legal team has now asked Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to clarify her account. A letter dated Sunday, April 14 — though not yet officially delivered — was sent requesting her response within two weeks to address the points raised and determine next steps.

“As the claim currently stands, it falls short of the global legal threshold for proving sexual harassment,” Agbakoba stated. He also advised that the case be handled through official channels rather than media debates.

He concluded with a firm reminder:
“Sexual harassment is a serious issue,” he said, “but so is the presumption of innocence. Let the facts lead, not sentiment.”

This case continues to unfold, as both legal and public attention remains sharply focused on the allegations and the evidence that may or may not support them.