The political space was stirred after Akpabio withdraws lawsuits against Akpoti-Uduaghan, following a powerful New Year sermon in Uyo.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has ordered his legal team to withdraw every pending defamation suit filed in his name.
The decision was announced publicly during a church service, surprising many observers nationwide.
Mr Akpabio disclosed this while speaking at Sacred Heart Parish, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
He said the priest’s message on forgiveness directly influenced his action.
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Akpabio Withdraws Lawsuits Against Akpoti-Uduaghan After Sermon
The Senate President revealed that he had close to nine active court cases.
According to him, the lawsuits involved individuals who allegedly defamed him publicly.
However, he said the sermon changed his mindset instantly.
He explained that the message felt personal and deeply convicting.
Mr Akpabio then instructed his lawyers to withdraw all the cases immediately.
He made the declaration openly before the congregation.
Although he avoided naming individuals, political watchers quickly made connections.
One major case involved Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central.
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Akpabio Withdraws Lawsuits Against Akpoti-Uduaghan Linked to Sexual Harassment Claims
In 2025, Akpabio sued Akpoti-Uduaghan over sexual harassment allegations.
The case was filed at the Federal Capital Territory High Court.
The Senate President demanded ₦200 billion in general damages.
He also requested ₦500 million as litigation costs.
Additionally, he sought public apologies and retractions in national newspapers.
Other related suits were also filed over similar claims.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan denied the allegations consistently.
She also filed counter suits against the Senate President.
Separately, Akpabio’s wife, Ekaette Akpabio, filed a ₦350 billion lawsuit.
She claimed the allegations damaged her husband’s reputation.
All these cases may now be affected by Akpabio’s latest directive.
Priest’s Sermon That Changed Everything
The sermon was delivered by Reverend Father Donatus Udoette.
He serves as Parish Priest and Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Uyo.
His message focused on forgiveness, peace, and reconciliation.
He urged worshippers to release past pain and emotional burdens.
According to him, healing begins when people let go of grudges.
He stressed that progress is impossible without forgiveness.
Mr Akpabio admitted the message struck him deeply.
He described the sermon as a personal wake-up call.
What This Means Politically
Akpabio withdraws lawsuits against Akpoti-Uduaghan at a sensitive political time.
The move may reduce political tension within the National Assembly.
It could also reshape public perception of the Senate President.
Many Nigerians are watching closely for further developments.
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