Senate President, Godswill Akpabio,[/b] has taken an unexpected turn in his ongoing legal battles by announcing his decision to withdraw all pending court cases against Senator Natasha Akpoti [/b]and other individuals who allegedly defamed him.
The revelation was made during a New Year church service held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, drawing widespread attention across political and social circles.
Akpabio made the disclosure while addressing worshippers at Sacred Heart Parish, where he reflected openly on his personal journey and recent experiences.
According to the Senate President, he had previously instituted nearly nine separate lawsuits against individuals he accused of lying, defaming, and slandering his name in the public space.
He explained that these legal actions were meant to protect his integrity and respond to what he described as persistent attacks on his character.
However, Akpabio revealed that a turning point came during the church service as he listened attentively to the priest’s sermon.
“I had almost nine cases in court against some individuals who defamed me, who lied against me and slandered my name. But as I listened to the priest, I suddenly realised he was speaking to me,” Akpabio said.
He noted that the message of forgiveness, restraint, and inner peace struck him deeply, prompting a moment of self-examination and reflection.
Moved by the sermon, the Senate President said he chose to let go of anger and resentment, stressing that peace of mind was more valuable than prolonged legal confrontations.
In a dramatic moment before the congregation, Akpabio publicly instructed his legal team to discontinue all the lawsuits with immediate effect.
“Therefore, I hereby direct my solicitors to withdraw all lawsuits against them,” he added.
He emphasised that the decision was a personal one, guided by his faith and a desire to begin the new year with a clean slate.
Akpabio’s announcement has since generated mixed reactions, with some applauding the move as an act of maturity and forgiveness, while others view it as a strategic political decision.
Political observers say the development could ease tensions between the Senate President and his critics, particularly within the charged atmosphere of Nigeria’s political landscape.
Regardless of interpretation, the gesture has been described by many as a rare moment of public reflection and restraint in Nigerian politics.
Whether the withdrawal of the cases will fully mend strained relationships or spark further debate remains to be seen, but for now, Akpabio has clearly chosen forgiveness over the courtroom as the new year begins.