Senate President Godswill Akpabio has instructed his lawyers to withdraw all defamation lawsuits he previously filed against several individuals, including Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, effectively ending a series of high-profile legal battles. The directive came during a New Year Mass at Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, where Akpabio said he was moved by spiritual counsel to forgive past grievances.
Akpabio had initiated nearly nine defamation suits in 2025 against persons he accused of slander and damaging his reputation, including a ₦200 billion claim against Akpoti-Uduaghan. However, the Senate President accepted spiritual advice and directed the complete withdrawal of all pending legal actions, signalling a de-escalation in the prolonged dispute.
The move is expected to ease tensions between Akpabio and political rivals, although aspects of the broader disagreement remain unresolved in political circles. Members of the public and political analysts have noted that the decision reflects a shift toward reconciliation and may influence political dynamics as Nigeria enters the 2026 legislative session.
