Senate President Godswill Akpabio withdrew all defamation suits after a New Year church service, guided by faith, leadership and reconciliation
Why Akpabio Withdrew Defamation Suits — A Choice Rooted in Faith, Leadership and Reconciliation
The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Senate President, Eseme Eyiboh, has shed light on the decision by Senate President Godswill Akpabio to withdraw all defamation lawsuits instituted in his name, describing the move as one guided by faith, leadership responsibility and a commitment to national reconciliation.
Eyiboh clarified that the decision, announced on January 1, was neither a product of political pressure nor expediency, but the outcome of deep personal reflection and conviction by the Senate President.
Recall that Akpabio had earlier directed his legal team to discontinue all pending court cases arising from alleged defamatory statements made against him.
According to Eyiboh, the turning point came after Akpabio attended a New Year Mass at Sacred Heart Parish, Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
He disclosed that during the service, the parish priest, Reverend Father Donatus Udoette, urged worshippers to forgive past wrongs, let go of grievances and embrace peace.
“He was not at a political meeting or engaging supporters,” Eyiboh explained.
“He was simply in church as a worshipper when the message of forgiveness resonated deeply with him.”
Eyiboh revealed that shortly after the service, the Senate President communicated his resolve to forgive his critics and withdraw all legal actions linked to alleged defamation.
The directive affected about nine defamation suits, including the widely reported N200 billion case against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, alongside other suits involving individuals and associates.
While addressing speculation around the move, Eyiboh stressed that Akpabio had never regretted defending his reputation through lawful means when accusations were made against him.
“For him, the law has always served as a legitimate instrument for protection and redress,” Eyiboh said.
“Choosing to step away from that option now represents a conscious pause from a position of authority he is familiar with.”
He added that the Senate President’s decision reflects a leadership philosophy that blends political authority with strong religious values.
“In his understanding, power is a trust that comes with responsibility,” Eyiboh explained.
“Forgiveness, in that context, is not a sign of weakness but an expression of leadership.”
Eyiboh further noted that prolonged legal battles often drain leaders emotionally and institutionally while deepening divisions within society.
According to him, the decision allows Akpabio to redirect his focus and energy towards pressing national responsibilities.
“There is also a strategic dimension,” he said.
“Promoting reconciliation rather than confrontation helps strengthen unity within the legislature and sustains authority without creating unnecessary tension.”
Dismissing claims that the withdrawal of the suits amounted to surrender, Eyiboh insisted that restraint requires courage and confidence.
“Absorbing criticism without retaliation is not easy, especially in public office,” he said.
He added that Akpabio’s action was intended to set a precedent in Nigeria’s political space, where disagreements often escalate into personal attacks and prolonged legal disputes.
“With the country facing insecurity, economic hardship and social mistrust, leaders must show emotional maturity,” Eyiboh stated.
“Such gestures contribute to national healing in ways that policies alone cannot.”
Eyiboh concluded that the move should be seen not as a symbolic gesture but as a deliberate leadership choice.
“Sometimes,” he said, “the boldest political decision is choosing restraint over retaliation.”
