Eseme Eyiboh, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has explained that the Senate President’s decision to withdraw all defamation suits, including the high-profile N200 billion case against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, was guided by faith, leadership responsibility, and a desire for national reconciliation.
Eyiboh said the move, announced on January 1, was not influenced by political pressure but arose from deep personal reflection and conviction.
Akpabio instructed his legal team to discontinue about nine pending cases over alleged defamatory statements.
The decision followed a New Year Mass at Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, where the parish priest urged worshippers to forgive past grievances and pursue peace.
“He was simply in church as a worshipper when the message of forgiveness resonated deeply with him,” Eyiboh said. Shortly after the service, Akpabio resolved to forgive his critics and withdraw all related legal actions.
Eyiboh emphasized that Akpabio has always defended his reputation through lawful means. “Choosing to step away from that option now represents a conscious pause from a position of authority he is familiar with,” he said.
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The aide added that the move reflects Akpabio’s leadership philosophy, blending political authority with strong religious values. “Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but an expression of leadership,” he noted.
He also highlighted that prolonged legal disputes can deepen divisions, while acts of reconciliation strengthen unity and contribute to national healing.