2027: Arewa Revival Project Defends Akpabio, Demands Evidence On Viral Claim

The Arewa Revival Project has defended Senate President Godswill Akpabio over a viral social media publication allegedly quoting him as saying that Northerners would be made to suffer if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu loses the 2027 presidential election.

The group described the alleged statement as “deeply inflammatory” and called for proper verification before it is accepted as authentic.

In a statement signed by its Project Coordinator, Hon. Muttaka Ahmed Ibrahim, the group said the circulation of a graphic containing Akpabio’s photograph and quotation marks did not establish that the Senate President actually made the statement.

“We therefore urge the public and media practitioners to demand the original video, audio recording, transcript, date, venue and credible source from those circulating the allegation,” the group said.

The Arewa Revival Project warned against allowing unverified social media materials to fuel division among Nigerians.

“Nigeria must not permit unverified social-media materials to become instruments for creating unnecessary division between its regions and peoples,” it said.

The group also commended Akpabio’s leadership as President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, describing the position as particularly demanding because of the need to balance political debate with the responsibility of ensuring that the legislature functions effectively.

It said leadership at the highest level of government requires “courage, experience, diplomacy, consultation and the ability to manage diverse interests.”

The group further commended Akpabio for what it described as his commitment to “legislative leadership, national dialogue, institutional cooperation and the strengthening of democratic governance.”

“Whatever political differences may exist among Nigerians, the office of the President of the Senate deserves constructive engagement and responsible public discourse,” the organisation said.

Consequently, the Arewa Revival Project passed a vote of confidence in Akpabio’s leadership as Senate President.

“Our vote of confidence is based on the principle that national institutions should be judged through verifiable actions, legislative responsibilities and measurable contributions, rather than through anonymous social-media allegations or politically charged graphics,” it said.

The group also urged Akpabio to continue providing leadership that promotes national unity, peaceful coexistence, legislative effectiveness and constructive engagement among Nigeria’s diverse communities.

On the 2027 political contest, the organisation stressed that national unity should remain paramount.

“Nigeria is bigger than any political party, individual or election,” it said.

It added that “the North, South, East and West are integral parts of one sovereign nation,” warning that political competition should not become an excuse for spreading statements capable of provoking hatred, suspicion or confrontation.

The group said it would continue to support responsible political participation while insisting that “truth, evidence and national interest must remain at the centre of our public conversation.”

It urged Nigerians to follow three principles: “verify before sharing. question before believing. unite before dividing.”

The Arewa Revival Project concluded by congratulating Akpabio on his service as Senate President and wishing him continued wisdom, courage and success in the discharge of his constitutional responsibilities.