The Danger of Unverified Sexual Harassment Allegations: When Trial By Media Replaces Due Process

By Timothy Odedina  

In Nigeria's increasingly polarized political climate, serious allegations of sexual harassment have become potent weapons in public discourse. The recent accusations by Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti against Senate President Godswill Akpabio highlight a disturbing trend—where unproven claims spread through media channels long before any judicial process begins.  

While society must protect genuine victims of sexual violence, we must also guard against weaponized allegations that destroy reputations without evidence. This article examines why due process matters, presents global cases of false accusations, and questions why some accusers prefer media trials over legal channels.  

Sexual harassment allegations carry immense consequences. For the accuser, it takes courage to speak up in a society that often silences victims. However, for the accused—even if innocent—the damage is often irreversible.  

Key questions we must consider: 

- Should public opinion determine guilt before courts do?  

- What happens when allegations are politically motivated?  

- How many innocent lives must be ruined before we demand evidence?  

The Natasha Akpoti vs. Godswill Akpabio case exemplifies this dilemma. While Akpoti has made serious claims in interviews, she has yet to:  

✔ File an official police report  

✔ Present verifiable evidence (texts, recordings, witnesses)  

✔ Pursue legal action in court  

Instead, the narrative thrives on emotional appeals and political theatrics.  

Section 2: Global Cases of False Allegations – Lives Destroyed 

History shows that false accusations can have devastating consequences:  

Reno Omokri’s Near-Miss (Nigeria)  

The former presidential aide was almost framed for harassment until his recorded evidence proved his innocence. "Without that recording, I would have been in prison," he revealed.  

Dani Alves (Spain)  

The Brazilian footballer was convicted of rape in 2023 based on testimony alone. Later, forensic inconsistencies emerged, but his career was already in ruins.  

The South African Wrongful Imprisonment 

A man spent nine years in jail for a rape DNA later proved he didn’t commit. His life was stolen by a lie.  

Lesson: Without evidence, allegations alone can be deadly.  

The Natasha-Akpabio Case – Media Trial Over Due Process?

Senator Akpoti’s approach raises red flags:  

 No formal complaints filed – Only media interviews  

No evidence presented – No texts, emails, or witnesses  

 Political undertones – Akpabio is a key opposition figure  

Contrast this with the Busola Dakolo vs. Biodun Fatoyinbo case: 

- Dakolo filed a police report  

- Presented her account to authorities  

- Accepted the court’s dismissal due to insufficient evidence  

Why is Akpoti avoiding the same route? 

The Bigger Picture – Why Evidence Matters?  

False accusations don’t just hurt the accused; they harm real victims by fostering scepticism. Studies show:  

- 2-10% of sexual assault reports are false (FBI, 2023)  

- Each false case makes it harder for genuine victims to be believed  

We must balance: 

Believing victims– Giving them a fair hearing  

Presuming innocence – Requiring proof before condemnation  

Justice Demands Evidence, Not Emotion

The fight against sexual violence must be rooted in facts. While Natasha Akpoti’s allegations may be true, the public cannot blindly endorse them without evidence.  

Final Thoughts: 

- If Akpabio is guilty, let the courts decide—not Twitter.  

- If Akpoti has proof, she should present it formally.  

- Society must reject mob justice and uphold due process.  

A society that punishes based on allegations alone is one step away from chaos. 

Think before you judge. Demand evidence before you condemn.