By Titilope Adako

Immediate past Chairman of the Nigerian-American Public Affairs Committee (NAPAC), Texas, Mr Ike Chidolue, has told suspended senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, to either present evidence to back her allegations or resign from the National Assembly.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, had accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, of plotting to kill her.

Chidolue, in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, was reacting to a Facebook post by the senator in which she dismissed a viral broadcast by one Dr Sandra Duru, also known as Prof. Mgbeke.

The broadcast, which aired live on May 1, contained audio recordings and screenshots allegedly contradicting Natasha’s public denials on certain issues.

She described the content of the broadcast as “manipulated” and “politically motivated,” but Chidolue said her response lacked substance.

He said the senator offered no facts, no forensics, and nothing to validate her claims.

According to him, “What it does offer, unfortunately, is a continuation of a now familiar pattern sensational allegations quickly recycled into conspiracy claims once confronted with inconvenient evidence.”

He said if the materials released by Duru were genuine, they paint a troubling picture of a public officer making unverified accusations for political benefit.

Chidolue noted that several of Natasha’s past claims remained unproven.

These include the allegation that Akpabio sexually harassed her, that Yahaya Bello was hired to assassinate her, and that the Akpabios had a hand in the 2021 death of a minor.

He also cited her claim that her reassignment on the senate floor was punishment for rejecting romantic advances.

“Not one of these claims has been substantiated by a police report, sworn affidavit, senate resolution or any authenticated document,” he said.

“When confronted with contradictory evidence, the senator’s response has been predictable—attack the source, dismiss the proof and shift the goalposts.”

Chidolue advised the suspended senator to take four steps to clear her name.

According to him, she should first verify or refute the recordings through an independent forensic lab and release the results publicly.

Secondly, she should present supporting documents such as police reports, court filings or senate records to back all her claims.

Thirdly, he said if she believes she has been defamed, she should seek redress in court.

Lastly, he said if she cannot do any of the above, she should apologise publicly and resign from the senate.

“Let it be said plainly that Nigeria’s public institutions are not theatres for trial-by-sentiment.

“When elected leaders make explosive claims, they owe the public facts, not theatrics. Nigerians deserve better than conjecture and drama.

“The time for storytelling has expired. The burden is now hers—evidence or exit,” he declared.

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