President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, returned to Nigeria in the early hours of Monday after a brief vacation in London, United Kingdom, putting to rest widespread rumours about his health.
His arrival effectively ended speculation that he was critically ill and had been hospitalised in the UK.
Akpabio had earlier attended the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament held in Geneva, Switzerland, from July 29 to 31. Following the event, he proceeded to London for what aides described as a short personal break.
He touched down at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja around 4:00 a.m. and was received at the Presidential Wing by a group of senators, aides, and supporters.
Speaking to journalists upon arrival, the Senate President assured Nigerians of “robust legislative engagements” when the National Assembly resumes plenary. He also defended Nigeria’s strong delegation to the Geneva parliamentary conference, saying it reflects the country’s commitment to global parliamentary collaboration and good governance.
“You can expect more dividends of democracy and improved synergy between the legislature and other arms of government,” Akpabio said.
His return comes a week after Senator Gbenga Daniel, former governor of Ogun State, publicly debunked rumours of Akpabio’s alleged hospitalisation. Similarly, Akpabio’s Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, had earlier dismissed the claims as false.
Addressing the speculation surrounding his health, Akpabio quipped: “If you listen to the social media, you will go to war.”
