Akpabio Returns, Speaks on Health Speculations

Senate President Godswill Akpabio returned to Nigeria on Monday morning after a brief vacation in London, putting to rest rumours about his health.

Mr. Akpabio arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at about 4 a.m. and was warmly received at the Presidential Wing by senators, aides, and supporters. His media team said his return “ends unfounded speculation that he was critically ill and hospitalised in London.”

The Senate President had last been seen publicly at the Sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in Geneva, Switzerland, held from July 29 to 31, before proceeding to London. His absence afterward had triggered speculation, particularly on social media, about his wellbeing.

Speaking with journalists on arrival, Mr. Akpabio promised Nigerians “robust legislative engagements” when the Senate resumes. He also defended Nigeria’s strong delegation to the Geneva conference, describing it as part of ongoing efforts to deepen democratic governance and strengthen collaboration between parliaments worldwide.

Mr. Akpabio, 62, a former governor of Akwa Ibom State and one-time Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, was elected President of the 10th Senate in June 2023.