Akpabio drops defamation suits after priest’s New Year admonition

 

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has ordered the withdrawal of all pending defamation lawsuits instituted by him against individuals, saying a New Year sermon by a Catholic priest prompted a personal reassessment.

Akpabio made the disclosure on Thursday during a New Year Mass at Sacred Heart Parish, Uyo, where he said he was moved by the priest’s message on forgiveness and reconciliation.

According to him, he had filed about nine defamation suits against individuals he accused of lying against and slandering him.

“I had almost nine cases in court against people who defamed me and lied against me,” the Senate President said.

“But as the priest preached, I realised he was speaking directly to me. I have therefore directed my lawyers to withdraw all the cases.”

In 2025, Akpabio initiated a number of high-profile defamation actions, including a ₦200 billion suit against fellow senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, over allegations of sexual harassment, which he denied and asked her to prove in court.

Earlier, Akpabio’s wife had also instituted defamation proceedings against Akpoti-Uduaghan, alleging that her claims caused reputational damage to their family.

The rift between the lawmakers worsened after Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of influencing her suspension from the Senate in March 2025, following her public allegations of misconduct.

She had challenged the suspension and other related actions in court, including filing a ₦100 billion defamation suit against Akpabio and others over remarks she said tarnished her image.

With the latest decision, Akpabio has formally brought an end to all defamation-related legal battles involving him, signalling a conciliatory start to the 2026 political year.