Alleged Plot to Remove Akpabio A Ruse, Counters Senate Leader

The Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has dismissed as misleading, the reports suggesting there was an attempt to remove the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, from office.

Bamidele made the clarification while addressing lawmakers and journalists at the National Assembly on Tuesday.

He described the rumours of an impeachment plot as false and a deliberate attempt to create confusion and disunity within the upper legislative chamber.

According to him, the Senate under Akpabio’s leadership remains united and focused on its legislative responsibilities.

“There was no attempt by any of our colleagues, nor any discussion about removing the Senate President. We are one family, fully committed to working together in the national interest,” he stated.

The Senate Leader stressed that the leadership is concentrating on critical national issues, including economic reforms, budget deliberations, and policies that affect the welfare of Nigerians.

He urged the public to disregard the false claims and avoid lending credence to speculations intended to discredit the institution.

The clarification came after some online platforms reported that a group of senators had initiated moves to impeach Akpabio. The rumour gained traction following a remark by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia North, who had earlier mentioned that there were previous, unsuccessful attempts to unseat the Senate President.

Kalu, however, later affirmed that the Senate remains united, describing the institution as “one big family.”

Senator Akpabio, who assumed office in June 2023, has occasionally faced criticism over leadership style and internal power dynamics within the chamber.

Nonetheless, the latest assurance from the Senate leadership appears aimed at dispelling concerns over a possible crisis.

Bamidele reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to stability, transparency, and collaboration in advancing national development, stating that the lawmakers are “more determined than ever” to deliver on their constitutional duties without distractions.