Former Edo State Commissioner for Information, Kassim Afegbua, has affirmed that Senator Godswill Akpabio remains in the race for Senate presidency and has no intention of withdrawing. In a statement on Monday, Afegbua addressed rumors suggesting Akpabio might abandon his bid in favor of a “juicy ministerial appointment.” He clarified that Akpabio has been confirmed as the front‑runner for the leadership of the 10th Senate within the All Progressives Congress.
“There is no truth to the rumors that Senator Godswill Akpabio is considering abandoning his quest to become the next Senate President,” Afegbua said. “The public should disregard such reports as mere mischief by those who are developing cold feet after seeing the handwriting on the wall that they will lose to Senator Akpabio.” He added that Akpabio “remains the man to beat and will not, by any stretch of imagination, step down from this aspiration. He is the best candidate for the job, both for the South‑South geopolitical zone and Nigeria at large.”
Afegbua noted that it would be impossible for a front‑line candidate to contemplate exiting the race at this stage. “All the odds favor Senator Godswill Akpabio. He is a proven administrator, and his origins and faith make his emergence the best opportunity for the APC and the Tinubu presidency to achieve a balanced and inclusive government,” he explained.
Before pursuing the leadership of the 10th Assembly, Akpabio consulted widely, reaching out to various segments of the Nigerian populace. The positive feedback he received propelled him to seek the office. He also consulted with President‑elect Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Vice‑President‑elect Senator Kashim Shettima, several Senators‑Elect, party executives, opinion makers, and ordinary Nigerians, all of whom gave him their endorsement.
Afegbua argued that, given Akpabio’s soaring popularity and the strong support from relevant stakeholders, “mischief makers who cannot match his popularity and acceptance have spun this narrative to distract the distinguished Senator.” He emphasized that Akpabio’s focus remains on the goal: “As a thoroughbred and consummate politician who understands the dynamics of our political landscape, he will not disappoint those who have given him the mandate to seek the 10th Assembly leadership.”
This sentiment is shared by the majority of his colleagues in the National Assembly and the party leadership, who recognize Akpabio’s role in the party’s recent electoral victory, especially his delivery of unprecedented figures from the South‑South region. They understand the importance of rewarding such a feat to promote party loyalty.
“He is in the race and in a commanding position,” Afegbua concluded.
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