Akpabio Faces Criticism Over Plan to Return as Senate President in 2027

Akpabio Faces Criticism Over Plan to Return as Senate President in 2027

Political commentator Jake Epelle has criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio and fellow lawmakers over a motion declaring that the Senate presidency would remain occupied in the 11th National Assembly. Epelle argued that the move undermines democratic principles because the position must be decided through an election by members of the incoming Senate after the 2027 general election.

The motion, passed on October 15, was moved by Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno and seconded by Senator Cyril Fasuyi. Both expressed confidence that many serving senators would return after the elections and backed Akpabio’s continued leadership, with the Senate President asking lawmakers to indicate their support.

Reacting on Arise News, Epelle said a motion could not guarantee Akpabio another term, insisting that the Senate presidency was neither a hereditary throne nor a position that could be reserved in advance. He also questioned the lawmakers’ confidence about returning to the Senate, describing the development as undemocratic and arguing that the constitutional election process must be respected.