Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed that she will not not succumb to any form of intimidation in her dispute with the Senate, especially its President, Godswill Akpabio.
Amid reports that she has apologised and another rumour claiming an exchange of N500m between her and Akpabio over alleged intimate advances, the senator representing Kogi Central, assured the public that she would not retreat from the struggle.
She, in a statement on Sunday, denied reports that she apologised to the Senate over the issue that led to her suspension.
Akpoti-Uduaghan said, “The reports suggesting that I have apologized to the Senate and retracted my position are completely untrue. I stand firmly by my words and actions and have not issued any apology to the Senate or anyone regarding this matter,” she said.
She criticised those spreading the false reports, accusing them of trying to twist the truth and mislead the public.
The senator, who was suspended after a disagreement with Senate leadership, said she remains committed to defending the rights of her people. She also claimed that some individuals were trying to manipulate public opinion with fake statements.
“I urge the public to disregard these rumours and publications as they do not represent my position. My commitment remains to truth, justice, and the people I represent.”
She also expressed concern over what she called a planned effort to silence her voice in the National Assembly.
She stated, “This is not just about me; it is about the integrity of our democracy. I will not be intimidated or forced into submission through false narratives.”
She urged Nigerians to be careful of misinformation, adding that any official statement from her would come only from her verified channels.
“I appreciate the support and solidarity of my people. Rest assured, I will continue to fight for what is right and just.”
There have been calls for Akpoti-Uduaghan to be recalled following her suspension from the senate.
The push to recall her followed her suspension from the Senate, after a heated dispute with the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, over seating arrangements.
She also accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and has since taken her case before local and foreign media and the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Union.
Earlier, the Independent National Electoral Commission disclosed that it had received the petition seeking the recall process of Akpoti-Uduaghan as Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
