A former Nigerian senator, Elisha Abbo, has denied allegations that he raped a 13‑year‑old girl, describing the claim as part of a political scheme to tarnish his reputation.
In a statement following reports that he was detained by the police over the accusation, Abbo said he was at his residence in Abuja and not in custody. He called the rape allegation “the handiwork of political detractors” and asserted it is an orchestrated smear campaign to disturb his peace.
He also asserted that he had filed a separate complaint with the police, accusing a woman of demanding N5 million from him, and claimed that narratives diverge from his original report.
Earlier petitions submitted to the Inspector General of Police by a law firm alleged that Abbo sexually assaulted a minor and threatened the victims’ family. These petitions included medical evidence and financial records.
The petition further claimed interference from political actors to suppress the case.
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Abbo’s denial adds to his history of public controversies. In 2019, he was arrested for assaulting a woman in Abuja. More recently, he has faced accusations related to sex tape blackmail and had his Senate election for Adamawa North nullified in October 2023.
