Return Ticket Claims False, Akpabio Clarifies APC Senators Rumour

The Senate President explained that his earlier comments were misinterpreted, stressing that he only expressed sympathy and concern for colleagues affected by the outcome of the primaries. He maintained that at no point did he guarantee or authorise any form of electoral favour for losing aspirants.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Eseme Sunday Eyiboh, it was firmly stated that reports claiming Akpabio had secured senatorial tickets for defeated candidates were false and did not reflect his position. The statement further clarified that the Senate President merely engaged in a general discussion with fellow lawmakers, during which he empathised with their political situation.

It was also noted that the leadership of the APC is already addressing post-primary issues within the party structure, and that the official list of candidates will be determined strictly in accordance with party rules, constitution, and electoral guidelines.

Akpabio reiterated his respect for internal party processes, stressing that he will not interfere in candidate selection or bypass established procedures within the party. The statement also emphasised that he would not make commitments outside the scope of his responsibilities as Senate President.