NEWS LEVERAGE

Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has categorically rejected accusations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) claiming he was involved in plotting her assassination. Describing the allegations as malicious, baseless, and completely false, Akpabio reiterated his unwavering commitment to national unity and democratic principles.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio expressed his resolve not to be distracted by what he termed a concerted effort to tarnish his reputation. He emphasized that these unfounded claims would not deter him from his duties in fostering national cohesion, strengthening democratic institutions, and upholding the rule of law.

“As a committed statesman who champions unity and democratic ideals, I will not be swayed by malicious falsehoods or inflammatory statements,” the statement declared.

The statement also confirmed that formal legal proceedings are being initiated, with demand letters being drafted to request public retractions, apologies, and compensation from both Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and former Senator Elisha Abbo, in response to the alleged damage to Akpabio’s reputation.

Akpabio’s media team specifically condemned the accusations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan during her remarks in Kogi State on April 1, 2025, where she accused the Senate President of recruiting former Governor Yahaya Bello for her assassination. Labeling the statement as an outrageous and harmful fabrication, the Senate President’s team described the allegations as both false and reckless.

The statement further highlighted that this is not the first time Akpoti-Uduaghan has made unfounded claims against Akpabio, referencing a previous sexual harassment allegation that she later retracted without providing any clarifications. It also noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan had a history of similar, unsubstantiated accusations against other public figures in the past, suggesting a pattern of exploiting victimhood for political and personal gain.

In addition, Akpabio dismissed recent comments made by former Senator Elisha Abbo, who accused him of manipulating the judiciary to orchestrate his removal from office. Eyiboh reminded the public that Abbo had already apologized for these claims in 2023 after acknowledging they were based on false information. The statement clarified that Abbo’s removal had been the result of a legitimate judicial decision by the Court of Appeal, and that Senate entitlements are processed through an administrative system, not at the discretion of the Senate President.

Eyiboh also expressed concern over the timing and nature of these accusations, suggesting that they were part of a broader political scheme to discredit Akpabio and the leadership of the Senate.

“This coordinated campaign, likely supported by hidden interests, seems aimed at undermining the integrity of the Senate and its leadership,” he said.

Despite the ongoing legal actions, Akpabio reaffirmed his dedication to his legislative responsibilities, focusing on the advancement of democratic values and national progress.

The Senate President’s team concluded the statement by urging the public and the international community to disregard these baseless allegations and instead focus on the Senate’s efforts to contribute to Nigeria’s growth and development.

Source: Vanguard