Senate President Godswill Akpabio has dismissed allegations that he facilitated the distribution of $15,000 in bribes to senators to secure their endorsement of a state of emergency in Rivers State. Describing the claims as a “campaign of hate” against him, Akpabio stated that the accusations were baseless and fabricated.
The allegations, which circulated widely on social media, suggested that Akpabio arranged the disbursement of $5,000 on Tuesday, March 18, and an additional $10,000 on Wednesday, March 19, during a breaking-of-fast event at his Maitama residence—just ahead of the legislative vote on the proclamation.
Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio denied any involvement in financial inducements, emphasizing that the breaking of fast was a longstanding tradition.
“I am aware and it is true that since Senator Godswill Akpabio, the president of the Senate, assumed that position, he has been breaking fast. He did it last year, he did it this year, so why is it turning into a rumour?” Eyiboh questioned.
Refuting the bribery claims, he added:
“On the issue of the dollars, he is giving the money for what? I am aware of the breaking of the fast, but I can tell you I am not aware and it is not true of the dollars, whether $5,000 or $10,000. People are just conjuring it to be able to give flavour to their malice and hate campaign.”
The Senate and the House of Representatives approved the emergency proclamation for Rivers State through a unanimous voice vote on Thursday. However, the controversy surrounding the alleged cash inducement continues to fuel political debate.
Linda Ikeji Blog