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Tag: Akpabio

  • Lawyer to Akpabio: declare Ebonyi South seat vacant

    Lawyer to Akpabio: declare Ebonyi South seat vacant

    A lawyer and stalwart of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Silas Onu, has urged Senate President Godswill Apkabio to officially declare Ebonyi South seat vacant.

    This, he said, would enable the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct election into the vacant seat. 

    He made the call in a letter to Akpabio yesterday. 

    He said the taking of oath of office as Minister of Works by Senator David Umahi in August had rendered the senatorial zone without a senator, thereby denying it of many benefits, rights and privileges. 

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    “This letter is pursuant to Section 147 (4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), which provides thus:

    “Where a member of the National Assembly or a House of Assembly is appointed as Minister of the Government of the Federation, he shall be deemed to have resigned his membership of the National Assembly or of the House of Assembly on his taking the oath of Office as Minister.

    “The above provision is reinforced by Section 68 (1) (d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended),” he said.

    He said based on the fact that Senator Umahi, who represented Ebonyi South in the Senate, took oath of office as Minister of the Federation on August 21, 2023, Ebonyi South seat became vacant.

    “Most Distinguished Sir, Section 68 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) empowers you to give effect to such vacancy.”

  • Akpabio did not collapse after birthday event, says Eyiboh

    Akpabio did not collapse after birthday event, says Eyiboh

    The special adviser on media and publicity to the president of the Senate, Eseme Eyiboh, has denied a report that claimed that the Senate president, Godswill Akpabio, collapsed and was rushed to the National Hospital during the Colloquium held as part of the activities marking his 61st birthday.

    Eyiboh in a statement in Abuja on Friday, December 15, urged the public to disregard the false claim. 

    Eyiboh said: “The rumours which have come to our notice through word of mouth from concerned and patriotic stakeholders have been fanned by some social media news channels with notoriety for the dissemination of phony newsflashes.

    “It was especially disconcerting that the conjectures on the wellbeing of the Senate President came after he was celebrated by the crème-de-crème of the nation’s leadership across all sectors at the Colloquium that was focused on defining a legislative agenda for national development.”

    Eyiboh said that Akpabio spoke on his feet for more than 30 minutes as he gave the expose of his trajectory in a way as never before.

    Read Also: First lady, senators, eminent Nigerians eulogise Akpabio at 61

    He said: “As the programme ended and President Bola Tinubu left the Transcorp Hotel venue, Senator Akpabio’s expression to some of those around him that he was tired was escalated to a fainting spell or collapse.

    “Some more adventurous purveyors of untruth in their thrilling escapade of fiction even claimed that he is presently hospitalized and in a critical condition in the National Hospital, Abuja.

    “This is wholly untrue and I declare firmly that besides saying he was exhausted in the hearing of those around him that he was certainly not rushed in a stretcher to the national hospital or indisposed.”

  • Godswill Akpabio’s grateful heart

    Godswill Akpabio’s grateful heart

    Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio is always concerned about the development of his people while contributing his quota to nation development.

    Former commissioner, governor, minister, senator to Senate President, the positions came to him without hassle. He has always gotten things based on merit and sheer luck with dint of hard work, more reason he has been a performer whose track record and indelible footprint cannot be overlooked.

    While as Governor of Akwa-Ibom, he initiated massive development in infrastructure renewal. He ensured the development of social amenities, education, tourism, and empowerment among others.

    All he invested in years ago is what he is leveraging today which has placed him on a high pedestal putting Akwa-Ibom as one of the most developed states in Nigeria after the return to democracy.

    During the run-up to the election as Senate President despite several hurdles; he emerged victorious. Despite sheer criticisms from all corners he has remained unperturbed and has made adjustments and corrections which makes him a listening leader. As senate president, he believes that any issues that are of the interest of Nigerians should not be left unattended to.

    Last weekend, December 9, the former Niger Delta Minister celebrated his 61st birthday and he was given a rousing welcome at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

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    A mammoth crowd cheered him and celebrated with him on the glorious day. Despite the state being governed by an opposition party, Akpabio has managed not to heat up the polity.

    Rather he has played a healthy and fact-based opposition politics in the state. To show that the state appreciated his good works and legacy, he was welcomed like a king with loud noise renting the air as he gave God the glory of preserving his life and making him assume the highly exalted position as the president of the senate. After that, he also held a banquet in his country home in Uyo, where he hosted his friends, colleagues and associates. It was a beautiful ambience prepared and planned by his beautiful wife Ekaette Akpabio who added a touch of elegance, panache and allure to the decorations.

  • First Lady, Senators, others eulogise Akpabio at 61

    First Lady, Senators, others eulogise Akpabio at 61

    Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, state governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, traditional rulers and other eminent Nigerians yesterday paid glowing tributes to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

    Speaking during a grand reception to mark the 61st birthday of the Senate President at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Tinubu described Akpabio as an extraordinary democrat.

    She said the event was not only a birthday celebration but an occasion to reflect on Akpabio’s contributions to the growth of democracy and his developmental strides while he was governor.

    The First Lady said: “It is my pleasure to celebrate the 61st birthday of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. This is an opportunity to reflect on his contributions to Akwa Ibom and Nigeria.

    “Under his leadership, Akwa Ibom State witnessed improved infrastructure and human capital development.  He has displayed exemplary leadership as Senate President. He is committed to good governance and accountability.”

    Speaker Tajudeen Abbas in his goodwill message said that members of the House of Representatives are proud to identify with the Senate President because of his commitment and loyalty to improving the country through people-centred legislations.

    National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje congratulated Akpabio for earning the love and respect of Akwa Ibom people and Nigerians as a whole.

    Ganduje noted that Akpabio’s landmark projects and legacies will continue to endear Akwa Ibom people to him and expressed satisfaction with his leadership of the 10th Senate.

    Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom said Akpabio was a gift to the state and Nigeria, adding that his administration will continue to collaborate with the Senate President to attract development to the state.

    Eno described President Bola Tinubu as the father of the nation and thanked him for supporting Akpabio to become the Senate President.

    Cross River state governor, Senator Bassey Otu, who was the chairman of the occasion, said Akpabio remained indispensable in the development of Akwa Ibom state.

    Otu promised to partner with Governor Eno to ensure that all boundary disputes between Akwa Ibom and Cross River states are resolved.

    The host, Senator Akpabio, who thanked all the guests that came to honour him, said he was overwhelmed with the turnout of guests from all walks of life.

    Akpabio urged Nigerians to remain hopeful as the Senate would work hard with the executive to turn around the fortunes of Nigeria.

    He said: “There is hope for Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu in spite of the economic crisis facing the nation.”

    Lawan lauds Akpabio at 61

    Immediate-past President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan, also joined other eminent Nigerians yesterday to felicitate Senator Akapabio.

    In a birthday message, he extolled the Senate President for his remarkable achievements throughout his political career.

    He commended the Senate President’s efforts in championing legislative initiatives and lauded his unwavering determination in advocating for good governance.

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    The birthday message reads: “Your Excellency, as you celebrate your 61st birthday anniversary today, I join in congratulating you on the remarkable achievements you have displayed throughout your political career as an ‘Uncommon’ leader.

    “Your dedication to public service and commitment to improving the lives of the Nigerian people have not gone unnoticed. Your visionary leadership has paved the way for positive change and progress, and the citizens of your beloved state, Akwa-Ibom, can attest to this.

    “As President of the Nigerian Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, you have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to making a lasting impact as you stir the affairs of the National Assembly.

    “I commend your tireless efforts in championing legislative initiatives and applaud your unwavering determination to advocate for good governance.

    “Your vision and passion continue to inspire us all, and we are grateful for your steadfast devotion to public service.

    “Indeed, Nigerians are grateful for your tireless efforts in striving for a better future for our country.

    “On the special occasion of your birthday celebration, I extend my warmest wishes to you, your family and loved ones.

    “May your birthday be filled with joy, happiness and the recognition of the profound impact you have made on the lives of so many.

     “We look forward to many more years of your exemplary leadership and dedication to our great nation.”

    108 APC Non-Serving Senators Group hail Senate President

    The 108 APC Non-Serving Senators Group also lauded the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on the occasion of his 61st birthday celebration.

    The group in a statement issued by its Convener and Chairman Pro tem, Senator Basheer Lado, in Abuja, said: “Your dedication and accomplishments in the political arena are truly commendable and uncommon.

    “Your pivotal role in advancing the renewed hope agenda alongside President Tinubu has not gone unnoticed, showcasing your unwavering commitment to progress.

    “Your exceptional leadership qualities resonate in the harmonious working relationship you have fostered between the legislature and the executive arm of government. Your ability to unite and drive collaboration is truly inspiring.

    “Wishing you continued success and fulfillment as you celebrate this milestone.

    “May your uncommon contributions continue to shape a better future for our nation.”

  • First lady, senators, eminent Nigerians eulogise Akpabio at 61

    First lady, senators, eminent Nigerians eulogise Akpabio at 61

    Wife of the president, Oluremi Tinubu, state governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, traditional rulers and other eminent Nigerians have paid glowing tributes to the Senate President,  Senator Godswill Akpabio.

    Speaking during a grand reception to mark the 61th birthday of the Senate President at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, Mrs. Tinubu described Akpabio as an extraordinary democrat.

    She said that the event was not only a birthday celebration but an occasion to reflect on Akpabio’s contributions to the growth of democracy and his developmental strides while as governor.

    She said: “It is my pleasure to celebrate the 61st birthday of the Senate President,  Godswill Akpabio.  This is an opportunity to reflect on his contributions to Akwa Ibom and Nigeria. 

    “Under his leadership Akwa Ibom state witnessed improved infrastructure and human capital development.  He has displayed exemplary leadership as Senate President.  He is committed to good governance and accountability.”

    Speaker Tajudeen Abbas in his goodwill message said that members of the House of Representatives are proud to identify with the Senate President because of his commitment and loyalty to improving the country through people-centric legislations. 

    National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje congratulated Akpabio for earning the love and respect of Akwa Ibom people and Nigerians as a whole. 

    Ganduje noted that Akpabio’s landmark projects and legacies will continue to endear Akwa Ibom people to him and expressed satisfaction with his leadership of the 10th Senate.

    Governor Umo Eno of Akwa  Ibom said Akpabio was a gift to the state and Nigeria, adding that his administration will continue to collaborate with the Senate President to attract development to the state.

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    Eno described President Bola Tinubu as the father of the Nation and thanked him for supporting Akpabio to be Senate President.

    Cross River state governor, Senator Bassey Otu, who was the Chairman of occasion,  said that Akpabio remained indispensable in the development of Akwa Ibom state. 

    Otu promised to partner with Governor Eno to ensure that all boundary disputes between Akwa Ibom and Cross River state are resolved.

    The celebrant Sen. Akpabio, who thanked all the guests that came to honour him, said that he was overwhelmed with the turnout of guests from all walks of life.

    Akpabio urged Nigerians to remain hopeful as the senate would work hard with the Executive to turn around the fortunes the Nigeria.

    He said: “There is hope for Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu in spite of the economic crisis facing the nation.”

  • APC lauds Akpabio’s leadership prowess at 61

    APC lauds Akpabio’s leadership prowess at 61

    The National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the exceptional leadership prowess of Senate President, Godswill Akpabio as a huge complement to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

    This was contained in a goodwill message to the former Akwa Ibom state governor by the party as he marks his 61st birthday.

    APC national publicity secretary, Felix Morka in the statement commended the Senate President’s efforts toward reinventing the strategic partnership between the legislature and the Executive branch.

    The statement read: “Our great Party congratulates the President of the Senate and Chairman of the 10th National Assembly, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio, on the joyous occasion of his 61st birthday anniversary.

    Read Also: Barau to Akpabio at 61: You are patriotic Nigerian par excellence

    “Renowned for his uncommon accomplishments, we celebrate a true patriot, nation builder, and lawmaker of extraordinary abilities.

    “As chairman of the 10th National Assembly, your efforts toward reinventing strategic partnership with the Executive branch remain invaluable to the achievement of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    “The national chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, joins with members of the National Working Committee, leaders, members, and stakeholders of our great Party to wish His Excellency a happy birthday anniversary in excellent health and divine wisdom.”

  • Former Senate president Lawan lauds Akpabio at 61

    Former Senate president Lawan lauds Akpabio at 61

    The immediate-past president of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, has felicitated the Senate president, Godswill Akpabio on the occasion of his 61st birthday celebration.

    Lawan, in a birthday message to Akpabio, extolled the Senate president for his remarkable achievements throughout his political career.

    He commended Akpabio’s efforts in championing legislative initiatives and lauded his unwavering determination in advocating for good governance.

    The birthday message reads: “Your Excellency, as you celebrate your 61st birthday anniversary, today, I join in congratulating you on the remarkable achievements you have displayed throughout your political career as an ‘Uncommon’ leader.

    “Your dedication to public service and commitment to improving the lives of the Nigerian people have not gone unnoticed. Your visionary leadership has paved the way for positive change and progress, and the citizens of your beloved state, Akwa-Ibom, can attest to this.

    “As President of the Nigerian Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, you have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to making a lasting impact as you stir the affairs of the National Assembly.

    Read Also: Barau to Akpabio at 61: You are patriotic Nigerian par excellence

    “I commend your tireless efforts in championing legislative initiatives and applaud your unwavering determination to advocate for good governance. Your vision and passion continue to inspire us all, and we are grateful for your steadfast devotion to public service. Indeed, Nigerians are grateful for your tireless efforts in striving for a better future for our country.

    “On the special occasion of your birthday celebration, I extend my warmest wishes to you, your family, and your loved ones. May your birthday be filled with joy, happiness, and the recognition of the profound impact you have made on the lives of so many.

    “We look forward to many more years of your exemplary leadership and dedication to our great nation.”

  • Dafinone congratulates Akpabio on 61st birthday

    Dafinone congratulates Akpabio on 61st birthday

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has congratulated Senate President Godswill Akpabio on his 61st birthday.

     Dafinone, in a goodwill message, lauded the President of the Senate, whose life he said has been an inspirational story of providence, courage, and forthrightness in championing the causes of his people and the unity and progress of Nigeria.

    Dafinone said the celebrator has distinguished himself as a Nigerian with a vast leadership experience, having served as a two-time Governor of Akwa-ibom State, Minority Leader of the Senate, Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and President of the Senate.

    He noted that Akpabio has contributed significantly to the growth of the legislature in Nigeria and distinguished himself overtime in the service of our nation — in various capacities and at various levels as a patriot.

    Dafinone prayed that the Almighty God, in his infinite wisdom, grace, and protection, continues to guide the President of the Senate in his remaining journey’s through life.

    “As the Senate President, Senator Akpabio has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, fostering unity and cooperation among his colleagues while championing the cause of good governance.   

    “His remarkable ability to navigate complex issues and find common ground has undoubtedly contributed to the growth and stability of our legislative arm.

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    “Beyond his political endeavors, Senator Akpabio has consistently displayed deep compassion for the less privileged, actively engaging in philanthropic activities that uplift the lives of many. His benevolent spirit and commitment to the welfare of the people have endeared him to countless Nigerians.

    “As we join in the celebration of Senator Godswill Akpabio’s 61st birthday, let us reflect on his remarkable journey and express our sincere gratitude God for his service to our great nation. May this special day be filled with joy, love, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

    “Once again, I extend my warmest wishes on behalf  of the good people of Delta Central Senatorial District to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on this auspicious occasion. May the years ahead be filled with good health, continued success, and the fulfillment of all your aspirations,” Senator Dafinone said.

  • Tinubu celebrates Akpabio at 61

    Tinubu celebrates Akpabio at 61

    President Bola Tinubu has felicitated the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, as he clocks 61 years of age.

    In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu eulogise the former Akwa Ibom State governor and former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs for his clout in politics.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu celebrates the President of the 10th Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, CON, on the occasion of his 61st birthday on December 9, 2023.

    “Celebrating the political leader whose antecedents and achievements continue to attract recognition at home and abroad, President Tinubu affirms the outstanding leadership qualities of the former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, who became a Governor at 45, after serving as a Commissioner in three different ministries.

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    “The President appreciates the loyalty, dedication, and commitment the Senate President has demonstrated over time, with measurable and lasting legacies to show for his time in various offices, most significantly exemplified by the uncommon transformation of Akwa Ibom into one of the most vibrant and frontline states in the country.

    “As the Senate President turns 61, President Tinubu wishes the Chairman of the National Assembly, whose service to the nation continues to inspire patriotism, many happy returns.

    “The President prays that God Almighty will continue to bless Senator Akpabio and his family”, the statement said.

  • Akpabio, a detribalised leader, says South South APC

    Akpabio, a detribalised leader, says South South APC

    The leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South South has described the President of the 10th Senate, Chief Godswill Akpabio, as a detribalised leader.

    APC’s National Vice Chairman, South South, Chief Victor Giadom, and the Zonal Secretary, Dr. Ita Udosen, in an online statement expressed optimism that Akpabio would succeed in his current responsibility, as he did in the past.

    Akpabio was also described as the Southsouth geo-political leader of APC, while wishing him well on his 61st birthday.

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    Leadership of APC in the Southsouth said: “The Senate President, your ingress into the Nigerian political space has turned out to be an assured fulfilment of your path of destiny, and indeed, a value-addition to our society.

    “As a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, erstwhile Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, and now, President of the 10th Senate, you are demonstrating full comprehension of the challenges confronting our people, and matching them with corresponding solutions, which have won you the sobriquet: ‘The Uncommon Transformer.’

    “You remain the goal-oriented, detribalised and hardworking leader of APC in the Southsouth.”

    The leadership of APC in the Southsouth also wished the Senate President good health, renewed strength, divine wisdom, and many more years of productive public service.