The office of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has strongly rejected recent claims made by former Senator Elisha Abbo of Adamawa North. Abbo alleged that Akpabio influenced the judicial decision that led to his removal from the Senate, calling the accusations “spurious and malicious.”
In a statement released on Thursday, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, the special adviser on media and publicity to the Senate President, clarified that Abbo was legally removed by the Court of Appeal after it determined that his election was invalid. Eyiboh emphasized that Akpabio, a respected lawyer and democrat, would never interfere with judicial processes, referring to Abbo’s claims as illogical and irresponsible.
“It’s unfortunate that, despite retracting a similar allegation in 2023, Mr. Abbo has chosen to spread misinformation and blame,” Eyiboh stated. He also pointed out that Abbo had previously acknowledged in a conversation with Akpabio that his accusations were without merit, making his latest comments even more confusing.
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In response to Abbo’s complaints about unpaid salaries, allowances, and benefits following his removal, Eyiboh clarified that the Senate President does not handle administrative payments personally. Instead, all financial disbursements must be checked and approved by the relevant offices, following the proper procedures. “If Mr. Abbo’s claims for payment did not reach the Senate President, it is because they did not meet the necessary legal standards, not due to any personal or political agenda,” he added.
Eyiboh reminded the public of Abbo’s past controversies, including a viral incident in 2019 where he was seen assaulting a woman in an Abuja toy shop, for which he was ordered by a court to pay N50 million in damages.
He suggested that Senator Abbo’s allegations against Senator Akpabio stem from “bitterness and desperation” rather than fact, stating that his conduct and public remarks further damage his credibility. Eyiboh reaffirmed that Akpabio remains committed to nation-building, effective legislative leadership, and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
“We encourage Mr. Abbo to respect the rule of law and focus on restoring the trust of his constituents instead of resorting to unfounded accusations and media theatrics,” Eyiboh concluded.
This back-and-forth highlights the ongoing tensions in Nigerian politics, as Senator Abbo’s allegations against Senator Akpabio suggest deeper issues within the political landscape.
