Deborah Akinyosoye
The ongoing verbal exchanges between the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, took a fresh turn on Saturday as her husband, Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, urged Akpabio to accord his wife the respect and dignity she deserves.
Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri Kingdom, in a statement made available to journalists in Warri, Delta State, on Saturday, said he had initially refrained from commenting on the dispute but felt compelled to speak due to recent developments.
“I would never trade her for anything, as she is the greatest joy of my life,” he stated.
He expressed concern over the sentiments being stirred by the matter, saying they were distracting from the real issues at stake.
“Without prejudice to the ongoing legal proceedings, I wish to emphasize that my wife was duly elected by her people due to the immense love, respect, and confidence they have in her.
“She is committed to delivering quality representation to her district and the nation at large,” he said.
Uduaghan described Natasha as a devoted wife and a truthful person, even in the face of adversity.
He disclosed that she had confided in him about her interactions with the Senate President, whom he considered a family friend.
“In response, I approached the matter with utmost maturity and responsibility. As a traditional leader who upholds family values and respects constituted authority, I sought to foster peace and harmony,” he said.
He revealed that he had personally met with Akpabio and urged him to treat his wife with the courtesy and respect she deserves while also honouring their friendship.
According to him, both parties had agreed to resolve the issue amicably.
“However, despite this agreement, my wife continues to express concerns about the harassment she has endured from the Senate President,” Uduaghan added.
Reaffirming his unwavering faith in his wife’s loyalty and their marriage, he urged the Senate and Akpabio to treat Natasha with respect while the relevant authorities and the court address the underlying issues.