Emmanuel Uduaghan, husband of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has demanded a public apology from Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi over defamatory remarks.
Uduaghan issued a 14-day ultimatum, insisting that Nwebonyi retract his claim that the senator forced him into marriage.
A letter dated March 27 from Uduaghan’s lawyer, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Ehiogie West-Idahosa, conveyed this demand.
Uduaghan warned that failure to comply would lead to legal action for reputational damage.
Nwebonyi’s Controversial Statements
Nwebonyi has actively defended Senate President Godswill Akpabio against Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment allegations.
As Deputy Chief Whip, Nwebonyi frequently appears on television to counter the senator’s claims.
He insists he witnessed events in Akwa Ibom when Akpabio allegedly harassed Akpoti-Uduaghan.
On Tuesday, Nwebonyi represented Akpabio at a Senate ethics hearing, clashing with former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili.
During a News Central TV interview, Nwebonyi accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of blackmailing Uduaghan into marriage.
He claimed she threatened legal action unless Uduaghan paid ₦10 billion or married her.
Similarly, he alleged that her presence destabilized Uduaghan’s previous marriage.
Nwebonyi questioned how many husbands Akpoti-Uduaghan had married by age 45 or 47.
Defamation and Reputational Damage
Uduaghan’s lawyer refuted Nwebonyi’s statements, calling them false and damaging to the couple’s reputation.
He emphasized that both Uduaghan and Akpoti-Uduaghan are respected and accomplished individuals.
The lawyer stated that Nwebonyi’s words spread widely across social media, harming their public image.
He noted that friends, family, and associates now regard the couple with suspicion and distrust.
Apology or Legal Consequences
Uduaghan’s lawyer demanded a written apology within 14 days of Nwebonyi receiving the letter.
The apology must be aired on News Central TV and shared across social media platforms that spread the allegations.
Above all, he warned that failure to comply would result in legal action against Nwebonyi for defamation.
READ ALSO: Senate Dismisses Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sexual Harassment Petition Amid Heated Exchanges
