Senate President Akpabio Returns To Nigeria, Dispels Ill-Health Rumours.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio returned to Nigeria in the early hours of Monday, 18 August 2025, quashing widespread speculation about his health. The former Akwa Ibom State governor arrived at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja after a brief vacation in London, following a parliamentary engagement in Geneva. His return comes amid viral social media posts claiming he was hospitalised or seriously ill, prompting concerns among Nigerians.
Akpabio, addressing the rumours through a statement shared via journalist Jackson Ude on social media, emphatically declared that he is “hale and hearty.” He urged the public to dismiss the false claims, clarifying that his trip abroad was for official duties and a short holiday, not due to medical issues. The Senate President’s media office reinforced this, describing the health speculations as baseless and affirming his commitment to his legislative responsibilities.
The clarification follows earlier denials from prominent figures, including Senator Gbenga Daniel, who on 11 August 2025 refuted claims that Akpabio was hospitalised in London. Posts on X from various sources, including the Akwa Ibom APC and news outlets, echoed these sentiments, confirming Akpabio’s good health and return to Nigeria. The Senate President’s arrival was met with assurances of robust legislative action, as he prepares to resume duties in the National Assembly.
This is not the first time Akpabio has faced health-related rumours. In December 2023, false claims surfaced that he collapsed after his 61st birthday celebration in Abuja and was rushed to hospital. His aide, Eseme Eyiboh, dismissed those reports, stating that Akpabio had only experienced exhaustion and malaria, managed at home with medical advice. The Senate also refuted the claims, noting that his fatigue was misinterpreted as a more serious incident.
Akpabio’s return coincides with a period of heightened political activity, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) recently secured 12 of 16 seats in by-elections across states like Ogun, Edo, and Kaduna. His leadership in the Senate remains pivotal as Nigeria navigates ongoing security and economic challenges. The Senate President’s office has reiterated his dedication to serving Nigerians, dispelling any doubts about his capacity to lead effectively.
