‘Akpabio’s wife visited Senate Chamber to inspect faulty equipment’ – Aide refutes ‘unholy access’ reports
The Office of the Senate President has addressed allegations surrounding a recent visit by Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, the wife of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, to the Senate Chamber.
Reports surfaced claiming that Mrs. Akpabio gained unauthorized access to the chamber alongside individuals described as “marabouts” and spiritualists. This visit, which occurred on a Saturday, has prompted scrutiny regarding its intent.
In response, Dr. Jibril Lawal Tafida, Special Adviser to the President of the Senate on Diaspora and Non-governmental Organizations, condemned these reports as “misinformation.” He clarified in a statement issued Saturday that Mrs. Akpabio’s presence at the National Assembly was strictly for administrative purposes.
Tafida explained that Mrs. Akpabio’s visit aimed to personally inspect malfunctioning equipment and facilities within the chamber after the Senate President received numerous complaints from senators and staff about the deteriorating conditions and inadequate performance of contracted work.
He dismissed claims that Mrs. Akpabio was accompanied by “marabouts” or individuals of dubious reputation, stating that the group included qualified professionals and technical specialists, such as electrical engineers, ICT technicians, and building maintenance experts, whose skills were necessary for the evaluation.
Tafida stressed that the visit occurred with the knowledge and authorization of relevant officials, and assured that there was no breach of security protocols during the inspection.
Regarding the choice of a Saturday for this visit, he noted that conducting such administrative assessments when the chamber is not in session minimizes disruption to legislative activities.
He urged the public to disregard the allegations, asserting they are attempts to create controversy where none exists. Tafida expressed confidence in the National Assembly, describing it as “one of the most secure and well-managed democratic institutions in Africa” and reaffirmed the effectiveness of its security measures and personnel.
