Arewa Group Backs Akpabio, Warns Against Social Media Fabrications

The Arewa Revival Project has backed Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio and warned Nigerians against spreading unverified claims on social media ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group reacted to a viral social media publication allegedly attributing a statement to Akpabio suggesting that northerners would be made to suffer if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu loses the 2027 election.

Describing the alleged statement as “deeply inflammatory,” the group said the publication should be properly verified before being accepted as authentic.

In a statement signed by its project coordinator, Hon. Muttaka Ahmed Ibrahim, the group said a graphic containing a photograph and quotation marks did not, by itself, establish that Akpabio 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,” he said.

The group warned that unverified social media materials could create unnecessary tension and division among Nigerians.

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

While addressing the allegation, the organisation commended Akpabio’s leadership as President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly.

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

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

The Arewa Revival Project subsequently passed a vote of confidence in Akpabio’s leadership, saying national institutions should be judged through verifiable actions, legislative responsibilities and measurable contributions.

“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 further urged Akpabio to continue promoting national unity, peaceful coexistence, legislative effectiveness and constructive engagement among Nigeria’s diverse communities.

It also stressed the need to place national interest above political competition.

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

The organisation urged Nigerians to verify information before sharing it and avoid statements capable of provoking hatred, suspicion or confrontation.