Several senators in the 11th National Assembly have declared Godswill Akpabio as the sole candidate for the Senate presidency.
This endorsement followed remarks made by Akpabio during Thursday’s plenary session, addressing backlash over his comments regarding a suicide prevention measure the previous day.
During the debate on the Suicide Prevention Bill 2026 on Tuesday—sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong representing Cross River South—Akpabio remarked that some young individuals contemplate suicide under the belief that they will encounter seven virgins in the afterlife.
The statements drew sharp criticism, with detractors accusing the Senate President of disrespecting Islamic beliefs.
Addressing the controversy on Thursday, Akpabio clarified that deliberations within the legislative chamber should not be interpreted as attacks on religious groups.
The Senate President expressed concern that remarks made during legislative debates were being distorted and manipulated for political purposes on television broadcasts.
“I don’t like the idea of people sitting down on television and trying to misinterpret what we discuss here in the senate,” Akpabio said.
“We want to make the best laws, so we are bound to oppose each other, and we are also bound to support each other.”
Senators back Akpabi for another term
In response to Akpabio’s remarks, Senate Chief Whip and lawmaker representing Borno North, Tahir Monguno, expressed confidence that the majority of incumbent senators will retain their seats in the 2027 general elections.
Cyril Fasuyi, the senator representing Ekiti North, also backed the sentiment, endorsing Akpabio for the Senate Presidency in the upcoming legislative term.
“My name is Senator Cyril Fasuyi from Ekiti north, a serving senator and an incoming senator in the 11th assembly,” he said.
“I hereby support the motion, ably moved by Senator Monguno, that the seat of the senate president in the 11th Assembly is not open to any contest. It is already occupied by Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio.”
Akpabio then questioned lawmakers about whether the stance represented the Senate’s overall opinion.
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