Akpabio Under Fire for Allegedly Blocking TV Coverage of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

By Diafa Doubra,

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has come under criticism following allegations that he ordered major television stations to stop airing footage of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan during plenary sessions. The directive, reportedly given to media teams covering the National Assembly, has sparked outrage among journalists and civil society groups who see it as an attempt to suppress free speech and transparency in governance.

Sources within the Senate claimed the order stemmed from tensions between Akpabio and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has been vocal about corruption and poor governance within the legislature. Media practitioners condemned the move, warning that any restriction on coverage of elected lawmakers undermines democratic accountability and press freedom.

While Akpabio’s office has yet to issue an official response, observers say the controversy highlights growing concerns over media control and political intolerance in Nigeria’s legislative arm. Many Nigerians have since taken to social media to demand explanations and urge President Bola Tinubu to caution the Senate leadership against actions perceived as undemocratic.