Senate President Godswill Akpabio has withdrawn all defamation suits against individuals, citing faith, leadership responsibility, and a desire for national reconciliation as the guiding factors. According to Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, the decision was made after attending a New Year Mass at Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where the parish priest emphasized the importance of forgiveness and letting go of past grievances.
The move, announced on January 1, affects around nine defamation suits, including a highly publicized N200 billion case against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Eyiboh stressed that Akpabio’s decision was not influenced by political pressure or expediency, but rather arose from deep personal reflection and conviction. The Senate President had consistently defended his reputation through lawful means and had never expressed regret for approaching the courts when accusations were made against him.
Akpabio’s leadership philosophy, which blends political authority with strong religious values, played a significant role in his decision. According to Eyiboh, forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but an expression of leadership, allowing the Senate President to redirect focus and energy towards more pressing national responsibilities. The decision to withdraw the suits is also seen as a strategic move to promote reconciliation and unity within the legislature, rather than confrontation.
Eyiboh dismissed suggestions that the withdrawal of the cases amounted to surrender, emphasizing that restraint requires courage and confidence. Akpabio’s action is meant to set a precedent in Nigeria’s political space, where disagreements often escalate into personal attacks and legal battles. With the country facing insecurity, economic hardship, and social mistrust, leaders must show emotional maturity, and such gestures contribute to national healing in ways that policies alone cannot.
The move is seen as a deliberate effort to model forgiveness as both a moral obligation and a leadership principle. By choosing restraint over retaliation, Akpabio aims to promote a culture of reconciliation and unity, which is essential for addressing the country’s pressing challenges. As Nigeria navigates its current difficulties, the Senate President’s decision may serve as an example for other leaders to follow, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and leadership in promoting national healing and reconciliation.
