Senate President Godswill Akpabio has directed his legal team to withdraw all pending court cases he instituted against Senator Natasha and several other individuals, saying he has chosen the path of forgiveness.
Akpabio disclosed this on Wednesday while speaking at a New Year service held at Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
According to him, he had filed nearly nine separate lawsuits against individuals he accused of defaming and slandering him.
The Senate President said his decision followed a moment of personal reflection inspired by the sermon delivered by the parish priest during the service.
“I had almost nine cases in court against some individuals who defamed me, who lied against me and slandered my name. But as I listened to the priest, I suddenly realised he was speaking to me,” Akpabio told the congregation.
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He explained that the message of forgiveness and reconciliation conveyed during the sermon prompted him to reconsider his actions and let go of the legal battles.
“Therefore, I hereby direct my solicitors to withdraw all lawsuits against them,” he said.
Akpabio’s announcement was greeted with applause from worshippers, as he urged Nigerians to embrace forgiveness and unity in the new year.
The decision marks a significant reversal for the Senate President, who had previously pursued multiple legal actions over alleged defamatory statements made against him.
While details of the individual cases were not immediately provided, the move effectively brings an end to all pending suits linked to the matter.
Political observers say the development may help ease tensions and signal a conciliatory tone in the political space as the country begins the year.