Akpabio Disowns Planned Rally in Akwa Ibom

Akpabio Disowns Planned Rally in Akwa Ibom, Labels It ‘Satanic’

ABUJA — Senate President Godswill Akpabio has distanced himself from a planned rally in Akwa Ibom State, purportedly organized in his support. The event, scheduled for April 4, 2025, was to be held by the Progressive Peoples’ Resolution (PPR), led by Ubong Idemudo, a figure described as controversial. Akpabio described the rally as “satanic” and urged his supporters and residents of Akwa Ibom to disregard it, warning that it was orchestrated by “fifth columnists” with ulterior motives.

Akpabio’s Statement

1. Denial of Involvement:
   • Akpabio, through his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, stated that he was unaware of any rally planned in his support in Akwa Ibom. He emphasized that the event did not have his approval.
2. Warning to Supporters:
   • Akpabio advised his supporters and the people of Akwa Ibom to avoid the rally and continue with their normal activities. He expressed concerns that the rally might be used to exploit his name for malicious purposes.
3. Call for Security Intervention:
   • Akpabio directed the police and other security agencies in Akwa Ibom to prevent the rally from taking place, labeling it as “satanic” and unauthorized.

Background of the Rally

1. Organizers:
   • The rally was organized by the Progressive Peoples’ Resolution (PPR), a group led by Ubong Idemudo. Akpabio’s team described Idemudo as a “known controversial character”.
2. Purpose and Motives:
   • The true motives behind the rally remain unclear, but Akpabio’s camp suspects it was orchestrated by individuals seeking to exploit his name for personal gain or to create unrest.

Political Context

1. Recent Controversies:
   • Akpabio has faced recent criticism, including allegations of corruption and abuse of women, made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The APC in Akwa Ibom has defended Akpabio, calling Atiku’s comments reckless and unbecoming.
2. Support from APC:
   • The APC Media Network in Akwa Ibom has rallied around Akpabio, dismissing recent allegations against him as baseless and politically motivated.

Reactions from Stakeholders

1. Security Agencies’ Response:
   • The police and other security agencies in Akwa Ibom have been directed to ensure the rally does not take place. This move is seen as a preventive measure to maintain peace and order in the state.
2. Public Perception:
   • The public reaction to Akpabio’s disavowal of the rally has been mixed, with some viewing it as a genuine attempt to distance himself from controversy and others questioning the motives behind the rally.

Conclusion

The disavowal of the planned rally by Senate President Akpabio highlights ongoing political tensions and the use of public figures’ names for ulterior motives. As Akpabio continues to navigate these challenges, his leadership and reputation remain under scrutiny.