Akpabio Demands Retraction, Apology From Senators Natasha, Abbo; Threatens Legal Action
According to Akpabio, he remains undeterred by what he described as a “deliberate campaign of misinformation,” characterising the statements as part of a coordinated smear campaign.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has denied any wrongdoing in response to allegations made by Senators Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Elisha Abbo.
He has also demanded retractions and formal apologies from both senators.
This stance was communicated in a statement released on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh.
According to Akpabio, he remains undeterred by what he described as a “deliberate campaign of misinformation,” characterising the statements as part of a coordinated smear campaign.
The statement, titled “False and Malicious Allegations Targeting the President of the Senate,” read: “While speaking in Kogi State on April 1, 2025, the suspended Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan falsely alleged that Senator Akpabio had recruited former Governor Yahaya Bello to assassinate her. This outrageous accusation is not only false but a dangerous and provocative fabrication.”
“Her recurring pattern of false accusations—including similar claims in 2019 and 2023 against other public figures—reveals a troubling exploitation of victimhood narratives for personal and political gain,” the statement added.
The statement also dismissed as false Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims that she was being denied entitlements, clarifying that Senate entitlements are processed administratively and not at the discretion of the Senate President.
“These individuals, possibly backed by hidden interests, appear united in a desperate attempt to undermine the Senate and its leadership,” the statement continued.
“Regardless of the necessity for legal redress, formal letters of demand seeking retractions, apologies, and compensation are underway,” it added.
This latest rebuttal follows an earlier statement, also issued by Eyiboh on Thursday, in response to claims made by Senator Elisha Abbo during an interview on Arise News TV.
Abbo accused Akpabio of running the Senate like a “personal empire” and orchestrating the removal of five senators, including himself.
“It is there in the papers,” Abbo stated.
He also alleged that he was unjustly denied official benefits after his removal, including salaries, allowances, and an official vehicle—despite a court ruling that declared his tenure null and void from the outset.
“If any of Abbo’s claims for payment did not reach the desk of the Senate President, it is because they failed to meet lawful standards—not due to any personal or political vendetta,” the statement clarified.
“It is unfortunate that instead of accepting the consequences of his legal and political failings, Abbo continues to resort to media theatrics and reckless finger-pointing.”
Eyiboh said, “Akpabio remains focused on the noble task of nation-building, providing purposeful leadership in the Senate, and strengthening democratic institutions—particularly the independence of the judiciary. He will not be distracted by the antics of individuals seeking to rewrite history to mask personal failures.”
“We urge Mr. Abbo to reflect deeply, respect the rule of law, and focus on rebuilding the confidence of his constituents if he hopes to return to public life. Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive when its actors show maturity, responsibility, and an abiding respect for the truth,” the statement concluded.
