The Nigerian Senate has reaffirmed its support for its President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the entire leadership team. This development comes just 24 hours after the Senate dismissed reports of an alleged impeachment plot targeting Akpabio, which had gained traction on social media.
The alleged plot, supposedly orchestrated by unnamed Northern senators, created a stir on Wednesday. However, both the Senate and Akpabio swiftly denied the claims, calling them baseless and labeling the reports as “fake news.”
Senators Address the Rumors
During Thursday’s plenary session, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi (PDP, Kebbi North) brought up the issue again under the Senate’s standing orders. He expressed concerns about the negative impact of such rumors on the integrity and unity of the legislative chamber.
Senator Abdullahi criticized the fake news for undermining the Senate’s role in governance and damaging its reputation. He called for solidarity among senators to counter such divisive narratives.
“The publication is not only misleading but also threatens the foundation of our democracy. It undermines our institution’s ability to perform effectively,” he said. “We must stand together under the current leadership to ensure this unity continues. Any attempts to divide us along ethnic or regional lines should be rejected outright.”
A Call for Confidence
In response to the situation, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) took a decisive step by proposing a motion of confidence in Akpabio and the Senate leadership. According to Ningi, the motion was necessary to dispel any lingering doubts about the Senate’s collective trust in its leadership.
“As a senator from the North, I must debunk these unfounded rumors. We should make it clear that we support the current leadership. I hereby move that we pass a vote of confidence in the Senate President and his team,” Ningi stated.
Other senators echoed his sentiments, including Senator Ismaila Kawu (NNPP, Kano South) and Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South). When the motion was put to a voice vote, it received unanimous support, signaling the Senate’s united stance.
Senate President Responds
Following the vote, Senator Akpabio expressed gratitude for the overwhelming show of confidence. He reassured his colleagues of his commitment to maintaining unity and delivering on the Senate’s mandate.
“On behalf of my Deputy and the entire leadership team, I want to thank you for this vote of confidence. We remain dedicated to fostering cooperation and ensuring that our work in this chamber serves the interests of all Nigerians,” Akpabio said.
He dismissed any attempts by external forces or social media platforms to disrupt the Senate’s harmony, emphasizing that such efforts would not succeed.
“We are stronger together, and no amount of misinformation can break the bond we’ve built here. In the coming months and years, we will prove ourselves worthy of the trust you’ve placed in us,” he concluded.
A Unified Front
The vote of confidence demonstrates the Senate’s resolve to focus on governance rather than be distracted by unverified reports. By standing together, the senators have sent a clear message: they are committed to upholding the institution’s integrity and ensuring effective leadership.
This move not only strengthens the position of Senator Akpabio but also reinforces the stability of the Senate as a whole, setting a tone of collaboration and mutual respect for the tasks ahead.
