Image of Godswill Akpabio

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

Akpabio, who had earlier attended the Sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in Geneva, Switzerland, between July 29 and 31, proceeded to the United Kingdom for a short break. His absence, however, fuelled speculation on social media that he was critically ill and hospitalised.

The Senate President touched down at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, around 4:00 a.m. and was received at the Presidential Wing by a delegation of senators, aides, and supporters.

Addressing journalists shortly after arrival, Akpabio assured Nigerians of robust legislative engagements when the National Assembly resumes plenary. He also defended the presence of a strong Nigerian delegation at the International Parliamentary Union in Geneva, stressing that the country would benefit from enhanced democratic governance and stronger collaboration with other arms of government.

The clarification follows last week’s denial by former Ogun State Governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel, who described the reports of Akpabio’s ill health as baseless. Similarly, Akpabio’s Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, had dismissed the rumours.

The Senate President, in a light-hearted remark on the speculation, cautioned Nigerians against misinformation, noting that reliance on social media without verification could create unnecessary tension.