Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central has asked the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, to open an investigation into Senate President Godswill Akpabio and social media user Sandra Duru, known as Prof. Mgbeke.
She accused both of working together to damage her reputation through what she described as a well-planned campaign of defamation, threats, and harassment.
The petition, dated May 15, 2025, was submitted by her lawyer, Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa.
It claimed that the campaign began shortly after Senator Natasha’s suspension from the Senate, which followed her earlier accusation of sexual harassment against Akpabio.
She alleged that the smear campaign was a direct response to that accusation, designed to ruin her name and endanger her life.
In the document sent to the police, the senator described how Sandra Duru first appeared online as an academic using the name Prof. Mgbeke, who posted content supporting women in politics.
Impressed by this show of support, Natasha reached out to thank her.
However, she said things changed after the so-called professor requested to be hired to manage her public image, demanding payment for digital support.
Natasha declined, and this, she claimed, triggered a flood of abusive messages, followed by public attempts to discredit her.
According to the petition, Natasha had no idea that Prof. Mgbeke was actually Sandra Duru until a broadcast on May 1, 2025, along with media investigations and testimony from those involved, exposed her real identity.
The senator insisted that this false identity was used to trick people and launch attacks against her.
She urged the police to investigate those behind the online posts, look into who funded and planned the activities, and gather all electronic evidence, including call logs and audio recordings.
She also asked that security be provided for her and key witnesses, as the campaign had put them in danger.
The petition also pointed to names found in Sandra Duru’s call log during a live broadcast, including top government officials and allies of Senator Akpabio.
This, according to Natasha’s legal team, suggests that the harassment was not a solo effort but a coordinated act supported by people in power.
One of the most troubling claims made by Duru, the senator said, was the accusation that Natasha was part of a secret plan to remove a government dominated by Yoruba leaders.
This type of statement, Natasha argued, not only spread lies but could also stir ethnic tension and expose her to national security threats.
Her lawyer stated that this allegation could be treated as an attempt to push a treason charge, which made it even more dangerous.
He argued that such claims, if left unchecked, could mislead the public and encourage violence against the senator.
Finally, the petition asked the police to hold all those involved accountable, including those who supported or shared the content online.
It called for a detailed investigation to make sure that justice is served, no matter who is involved.
