Human rights advocate calls for accountability and scrutiny of Akpabio’s conduct over public allegation by Pat

Human rights advocate calls for accountability and scrutiny of Akpabio’s conduct over public allegation by Pat

By Naomi Onome

The controversy surrounding Senate President Godswill Akpabio is indeed generating significant buzz, with his sister-in-law, Pat Akpabio, making serious allegations against him. Pat, who is married to Akpabio’s brother Ibanga, has publicly accused the Senate President of misconduct, including involvement in unresolved killings during his tenure as Akwa Ibom State Governor.

According to human rights advocate Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, the Senate President, Akpabio, has also been accused of embezzlement by the EFCC and has been running from post to post to avoid prosecution. He added that Akpabio’s wife, Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, has been defending her husband, Godswill Akpabio, against allegations of molestation and attempted rape levied against him by both sis-in-law Pat Akpabio and Natasha’s claims. The accusation was made in both English and local dialects, and netizens have interpreted it to be a sign of his questionable character.

Iche said some key points to note from Pat’s allegations include: Accusations of Murder: Pat claims Akpabio was involved in killings during his governorship, and she’s warned she’d reveal more if he doesn’t step down; Betrayal – She alleges Akpabio betrayed political allies like Umana Okon Umana and Nsima Ekere; Neglect of Hometown – Pat says Akpabio’s hometown, Ukana Ikot Ntuen, lacks basic amenities like electricity despite his influential position; Family Feud – That Akpabio family appears divided, with Pat and her husband, Ibanga, at odds with the Senate President.

Looking back at Akpabio’s questionable history in the political sphere Iche noted that Akpabio has held various posts before becoming the Senate President, including governor of his state and minister under Buhari. After becoming the governor, he faced accusations of embezzlement and had to evade EFCC invitations or detention. His last appearance was when his lawyer claimed he travelled out of the country for a medical checkup. And after the election, President Tinubu immediately nominated him to be the Senate President.

Iche further said,

“Akpabio has faced numerous accusations and counter-accusations, including alleged sexual harassment and bribery. If Nigerian leaders had conscience, Akpabio could have resigned or stepped aside honourably.”

“The Natasha issue could have ended an era for the Senate President; now Pat has come out to say so much which was debunked yet true. Is it not better for Godswill Akpabio to tender his resignation and save his face from further embarrassment?”

In addition, Iche advised that the Senate President’s wife, as usual, address the public through national mediums to defend her husband against these accusations or advise him to resign honourably. Iche calls for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s timely intervention to address the atrocities committed by those who are bent on making his administration futile.

In conclusion, Iche alleged that the Senate President, Akpabio, has been accused of embezzlement, bribery, and other issues that have led to his downfall. It is crucial for the Senate President to step aside and face the consequences of his actions.

However, Akpabio’s spokesperson, Eseme Eyiboh, has dismissed these claims as baseless and politically motivated, urging Pat to report any evidence to security agencies instead of airing grievances on social media.

It’s also worth noting that there are reports of previous accusations against Akpabio, including allegations of molestation and embezzlement by the EFCC, though there’s no indication of convictions.

The situation has sparked calls for accountability and scrutiny of Akpabio’s conduct, with some questioning how he maintains public office amid these allegations.