Akpabio Denies Promising Senate Tickets to APC Senators Who Lost Primaries

Clarification on Misleading Reports on Party Primaries Concerning Senators
The Office of the President of the Senate has reacted to reports circulating in some sections of the media claiming that the Senate President promised to secure senatorial tickets for lawmakers who lost their party primaries

According to the office, the reports are misleading and do not represent the position of the Senate President.

The statement explained that during interactions with his colleagues, Senator Akpabio merely expressed sympathy for senators adversely affected by the outcome of the primaries. He also informed them that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is working to resolve issues arising from the exercise and that the party’s final list of candidates will be released at the appropriate time in accordance with its constitution and electoral guidelines.

The Senate President reaffirmed his commitment to party discipline, due process, and the APC’s internal dispute-resolution mechanisms. He emphasized that he would not interfere with the party’s independent processes or make commitments beyond the responsibilities of the National Assembly leadership.
On Comments Regarding Security and Legislative Oversight

The office also addressed reports quoting a senator who called for a Senate investigation into the military over recent security incidents.
While acknowledging that legislative oversight remains a constitutional duty of the National Assembly, Senator Akpabio maintained that this is not the right time for a public probe of the Armed Forces.

He noted that with troops currently engaged in operations against terrorism, banditry, and other security threats across the country, subjecting the military to a public legislative investigation could affect their morale and distract them from ongoing operations.

The Senate President stated that support, cooperation, and private engagements with security agencies would be more effective under the current circumstances. He added that oversight responsibilities would continue to be carried out responsibly without creating distractions that could benefit adversaries or hinder efforts to secure the nation.

Senator Akpabio therefore urged members of the media and the public to disregard inaccurate and sensational interpretations of his remarks and encouraged journalists to seek clarification from his office before publication.
Signed:

Hon. Eseme Eyiboh
Special Adviser, Media and Publicity
Office of the President of the Senate
Federal Republic of Nigeria
June 6, 2026.