Mr. Ike Chidolue, former Chairman of the Nigerian-American Public Affairs Committee (NAPAC), Texas, has asked Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to provide solid evidence for her claims or resign from office.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, the suspended senator representing Kogi Central, had accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello of plotting to kill her. Chidolue responded on Sunday in Abuja, urging her to back her words with verifiable proof.
Chidolue’s statement followed the senator’s Facebook post, where she dismissed a May 1 broadcast by Dr. Sandra Duru (also known as Prof. Mgbeke). The video featured audio clips and screenshots that appeared to contradict Akpoti-Uduaghan’s public claims. She described the content as “manipulated” and “politically motivated.”
Chidolue disagreed. He said her post lacked facts, forensics, and credibility. “It continues a familiar pattern of sensational accusations recycled into conspiracy theories when challenged,” he stated.
He argued that if Duru’s materials were authentic, they showed a troubling trend—using unproven allegations for political gain. He listed several claims by Akpoti-Uduaghan that lacked evidence. These include sexual harassment accusations against Akpabio, an alleged assassination plot by Bello, and claims about the Akpabio family’s role in a 2021 minor’s death.
“Provide Proof or Step Down” – Chidolue Urges
Chidolue noted that none of these claims had supporting documents such as police reports, affidavits, Senate records, or court filings. “Each time she’s faced with evidence, she attacks the source and dismisses the facts,” he said.
He recommended four steps to restore public trust. First, the senator should have Duru’s recordings tested by an independent forensic lab. Second, she must present police reports and court records to support her claims or pursue legal action if she has been defamed.
If she fails, Chidolue said, she must issue a public apology and resign. “Public offices are not theatres for trial-by-sentiment. Nigerians deserve truth, not drama,” he added. “The burden is now hers: evidence or exit.”
(NAN)
