Akpoti-Uduaghan Calls Out Police Over Bias in Petitions Against Akpabio

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused the Nigeria Police Force of showing favoritism in handling a series of petitions she submitted against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. She claims the police have been quick to pursue a counter-petition from Akpabio, while failing to properly investigate her own complaints.

In a letter dated May 19, 2025, addressed to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal representative, Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa, SAN, outlined her concerns. The senator’s legal team described the police’s actions as indicative of a “disturbing pattern of favoritism” towards Akpabio, suggesting that political influence may be hindering the investigation of her claims.

The accusations stem from several petitions she filed with the police between March and April 2025. These included a report from March 25 concerning threats to her safety, a complaint on March 31 regarding the wrongful withdrawal of her police protection, and a petition on April 4 accusing Akpabio and Yahaya Bello of conspiring to kill her. While the police acknowledged receipt of these petitions, no substantial steps, such as witness interviews or progress in the investigations, have been taken.

West-Idahosa noted that the lack of movement on these cases might be due to the political prominence of Akpabio, who holds a high-ranking position. He also emphasized that since Yahaya Bello is no longer a sitting governor, he should no longer be shielded by constitutional immunity and should be subject to investigation.

Also, the legal team noted the quick response from the police to Akpabio’s counter-petition, filed on April 3.  Akpabio accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of making false allegations, criminal defamation, and incitement. The police quickly invited her for questioning, where she reaffirmed her claims, providing supporting evidence and witnesses. However, her lawyers pointed out that her petitions and the associated evidence were not included in the file regarding Akpabio’s complaint. They were also informed that the police had concluded their investigation into Akpabio’s allegations.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team expressed concern that the police had deliberately stalled the investigation into her petitions, calling it a clear violation of her constitutional rights. They argue that the police’s selective approach to these cases constitutes an abuse of power.

Now, Akpoti-Uduaghan is urging the Attorney General to invoke Section 105(3) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, requesting a review of the case files from the Nigeria Police. Her legal team is calling for immediate intervention to ensure that justice is served, and the principles of fairness and due process are upheld.