Senators Dismiss Alleged Plot to Remove Akpabio, Reaffirm Unity in Upper Chamber

•Say report aimed at creating distraction

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate, yesterday, dismissed reports alleging a plot by some lawmakers to remove Senate President Godswill Akpabio, describing the speculation as a fabrication designed to cause disaffection and distract the National Assembly from its legislative focus.

Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, while addressing the chamber, clarified that there had been no discussion, formal or informal, about the removal of Akpabio, adding that the report was a deliberate attempt to sow discord among senators and mislead the public.

The lawmaker revealed that the clarification became necessary following a media report that was attributed to former Abia State governor and Senate Chief Whip in the 9th Assembly, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, suggesting internal moves to unseat Akpabio.

He said the attention of the leadership was drawn to the development when the story appeared in the newspaper.

He said, “One of us tried to speak with Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, and he eventually returned the call. From my discussion with him, it was obvious that he was quoted out of context.”

According to him, there was “no attempt by any colleague” to discuss, plan, or initiate any process relating to the possible removal of the Senate President, stressing that the chamber remained fully united under Akpabio’s leadership.

“We are not taking this misinformation for granted because we know that, at this time, we are all united behind the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio, as President of the Senate.

“We are developing a zero level of tolerance to distraction because there are very urgent issues of public importance that we need to attend to.

“This Senate is working to ensure that we stay focused on national priorities, and such a report was clearly intended to create confusion in the minds of the public.”

The senator emphasised that the 10th Senate has so far demonstrated unity of purpose and cooperation across party lines, adding that senators were resolved to protect the institution’s integrity and prevent external forces from destabilizing it.

“There is no tension in this Senate. As far as we are concerned, there is no reason for us to begin to contemplate the removal of any of our presiding officers. We are one family working in the interest of Nigeria.”

In response, Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session in Akpabio’s absence, commended the lawmaker for the clarification, reaffirming that the Senate leadership enjoyed the full confidence and support of all members.

Barau, who presided over the plenary, urged Nigerians to take note of the clarification.

“Thank you, our capacity leader, for this clarification. All and sundry should please take note,” Barau said.