IBY
Peterside Rejoice Eneky
The Office of the President of the Senate has strongly denied fresh allegations made by former senator Elisha Abbo, dismissing his claims as baseless and politically motivated.
In a press statement signed by Senate President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Rt. Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, the Senate leadership described Abbo’s accusations as “spurious and malicious,” accusing him of attempting to shift blame for his removal from the Red Chamber.
Abbo, who formerly represented Adamawa North Senatorial District, was removed from office by a ruling of the Court of Appeal, which found that his election was invalid. However, the former senator has repeatedly alleged that his political downfall was orchestrated by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The Senate President’s office refuted these claims, pointing out that Abbo had previously retracted similar accusations in 2023, admitting that they were made “prematurely and based on the available information at our disposal.” According to the statement, Abbo had personally acknowledged in discussions with Akpabio that the Senate President had “no involvement” in his legal battles.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Court of Appeal, after a thorough legal process, ruled unequivocally that Mr. Abbo’s presence in the Red Chamber was in error. The court determined that he was not validly elected as the Senator for Adamawa North, and consequently, he was removed,” the statement read.
The Senate President’s office further stated that Akpabio, as a seasoned lawyer and democrat, holds the judiciary’s independence in the highest regard and would not interfere in its rulings.
Additionally, Abbo has alleged that he was denied his entitled benefits following his removal, including salaries, allowances, and an official vehicle. The Senate President’s office countered that all financial approvals follow due process and that any claims not approved were due to procedural shortcomings, not political interference.
The statement also referenced Abbo’s past controversies, including a widely publicized 2019 assault case in which he was caught on video physically attacking a female citizen in Abuja. A court later ordered him to pay N50 million in damages.
“These claims are not only baseless but reek of grievance and a refusal to accept personal responsibility for his removal and loss of public trust,” the statement asserted.
Senator Akpabio, according to his media office, remains focused on governance and strengthening democratic institutions rather than engaging in political distractions. The statement urged Abbo to respect the rule of law and focus on regaining the confidence of his constituents if he hopes to return to public office.
The political dispute between the two figures continues to stir controversy, with Nigerians divided over the claims and counterclaims. However, the judiciary’s role in Abbo’s removal remains a critical factor in determining the veracity of his allegations.
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