The Office of the President of the Senate has responded to recent allegations made by Mr. Elisha Abbo, who was removed from the Senate following a judicial intervention. Abbo had accused Senate President, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, of influencing the court's judgment and denying him official benefits.
According to the Senate President's office, Abbo's allegations are baseless and malicious. In 2023, Abbo had publicly retracted similar allegations, admitting that they were "premature and based on the available information at our disposal." Despite this, Abbo has continued to make unfounded claims.
The Senate President's office emphasized that the Court of Appeal's ruling, which led to Abbo's removal, was made in accordance with the law and the Constitution. Senator Akpabio, a seasoned lawyer and democrat, respects the independence of the judiciary and would never interfere in its processes.
Regarding Abbo's claims of being denied official benefits, the Senate President's office stated that payments are only approved after being duly vetted and forwarded by administrative units, in line with extant laws and Senate procedures.
The office urged Abbo to reflect on his actions, respect the rule of law, and focus on rebuilding the confidence of his constituents if he hopes to return to public life. Nigeria's democracy can only thrive when its actors show maturity, responsibility, and respect for the truth.