WARRI/Nigeria: The Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, has stepped into the ongoing controversy between his wife, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, calling for respect and an end to intimidation.
In a statement made available to the press, High Chief Uduaghan revealed that while he had initially chosen not to speak on the matter, recent developments had forced him to break his silence.
“I had initially resolved not to get involved in the ongoing dispute between my beloved wife, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio. However, recent developments have compelled me to issue this statement. It is clear that certain sentiments are being stirred up unnecessarily, distracting from serious underlying allegations that should concern every discerning individual with sound family values,” he stated.
The Warri traditional leader emphasized that, without prejudice to ongoing legal proceedings, his wife was duly elected by her constituents, who have immense confidence in her leadership. He described her as a devoted wife who has remained truthful even in the face of adversity.
“My wife has confided in me about her interactions with the Senate President, whom I considered a family friend. In response, I approached the matter with utmost maturity and responsibility, as it is my duty as a traditional leader to uphold core family values and foster peace and harmony. I personally met with the Senate President and respectfully urged him to extend the courtesy my wife deserves while also honoring the friendship between us. We reached an understanding and agreed to resolve the issue amicably,” he said.
However, despite this agreement, High Chief Uduaghan disclosed that his wife continues to express concerns over what she describes as harassment from the Senate President.
Reaffirming his commitment to their marriage, he stressed that their bond remained unshakable. “I have unwavering faith in my wife’s loyalty, and I am fully committed to our marriage, which is grounded in love, compassion, and mutual respect. I would never trade her for anything, as she is the greatest joy of my life,” he said.
He further called on the Senate and the Senate President to treat his wife with the respect and dignity she deserves while allowing the relevant authorities and the courts to determine the underlying issues.
