Akpabio Denies Assassination Plot Accusations, Demands Apology from Natasha and Abbo

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has firmly rejected accusations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), who alleged that he conspired to assassinate her. Akpabio described these accusations as “malicious, false, and baseless,” emphasizing his commitment to upholding national unity and the rule of law.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio condemned the allegations as part of a deliberate misinformation campaign. The Senate President reaffirmed that his dedication to democratic values would not be shaken by what he called inflammatory rhetoric.

According to the statement, Akpabio’s legal team is preparing formal demand letters addressed to both Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and former Senator Elisha Abbo. The letters will request immediate public retractions, apologies, and compensation for the reputational damage caused by the accusations.

The statement, titled “Re: False and Malicious Allegations Targeting the President of the Senate,” criticized the allegations as part of a coordinated smear campaign. It specifically addressed claims made by Akpoti-Uduaghan during an April 1 event in Kogi State, where she accused Akpabio of plotting with former Governor Yahaya Bello to kill her. Akpabio’s team dismissed the accusation as a “dangerous and provocative fabrication.”

The statement also pointed out that Akpoti-Uduaghan has a history of making similar false allegations, which she has retracted in the past without further explanation. Additionally, it addressed recent comments made by former Senator Abbo, who accused Akpabio of manipulating the judiciary to remove him from office. Eyiboh clarified that Abbo’s removal was the outcome of a legitimate Court of Appeal decision, and Abbo had previously apologized for making unverified claims.

Furthermore, the statement refuted Abbo’s recent allegations about being denied Senate entitlements, clarifying that such matters are processed through administrative channels, not at the discretion of the Senate President.

Akpabio’s media aide hinted that the timing and nature of the allegations might indicate political motivation aimed at undermining the Senate’s leadership. Despite the plans for legal action, Akpabio remains focused on his legislative duties, urging Nigerians and the international community to disregard the false accusations and support the Senate’s efforts toward national progress.