Amidst ongoing concerns over Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s recent remarks about senators’ holiday allowances, the presidency is reportedly unsettled by the adverse impact this perception is having on the administration’s image.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Summer-IDRI-Masterclass.jpg")
Sources within President Bola Tinubu’s inner circle have indicated that they are actively searching for a potential replacement for Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Insiders suggest that these close associates of the President are also contemplating adjustments to the existing Senate leadership structure once Akpabio’s replacement is identified.
The unease in the presidency stems from the incident where Akpabio embarrassed senators during a recent session. Akpabio’s announcement that the Clerk of the Senate would provide senators with a token for their vacation expenses received a negative reaction and prompted a backlash from Nigerians who criticized senators for benefiting excessively from public funds.
Sources reveal that the presidency was displeased with Akpabio’s insensitive comments, particularly as they do not align with the administration’s message.
Ajuri Ngelale, a Presidential Spokesman, expressed disapproval of Akpabio’s comments, stressing that such remarks were inappropriate given the seriousness of the issue.
Although Akpabio is reportedly attempting to reconcile and avoid any potential consequences, those around the President are said to be alarmed by Akpabio’s communication approach.
A serving Senator from a southwestern state asserted that Ngelale’s opinion reflected the perspective of the President’s close circle.
Additionally, Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, hinted at potential actions against Akpabio due to his disclosure about senators receiving money for their vacation expenses. Ndume cautioned that if Akpabio does not change his behavior, steps might be taken against him for his ill-considered statements.
Notably, while Akpabio faced severe criticism last week, he has gained support from a group of former and current National Assembly members who contend that the recess allowances he announced for senators were appropriate.
The Leadership Council of The Initiatives, comprised of past and present lawmakers, affirmed Akpabio’s sincerity, clarifying that he had simply relayed that senators had already received their allowances from the Clerk of the National Assembly before being interrupted during the session.
During a press conference, Hon Eseme Eyiboh, the Dean of Faculty Board of The Initiatives, stressed that lawmakers are entitled to their allowances, particularly as some had not received their salaries due to capital releases being withheld. He emphasized that Akpabio’s use of the term “token” indicated an intervention to alleviate potential financial hardships.
Eyiboh defended Akpabio’s character and generosity, urging understanding of the senators’ demanding schedules and sacrifices.
The situation comes alongside debate about Senator Akpabio’s visit to the presidential villa to discuss national matters of importance.
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
The book also examines Nigeria's legal ecosystem, focusing on the LPELR and NBA AI Guidelines. As a bonus, every purchase comes with a FREE eBook titled: How to Use the AI Features in LegalPedia and LawPavilion.
Ohio Books Ltd praises the publication, stating:
"....this is the only Nigerian book I know of on the topic."
How to Order:
📞 Call, Text, or WhatsApp: 08034917063 | 07055285878
📧 Email: benadigwe1@gmail.com
🌎 Website: www.benadigwe.com
Ebook Version: Access it directly online at https://selar.com/prv626
Authored by Ben Ijeoma Adigwe Esq., ACIarb (UK), LL.M, Dip. in Artificial Intelligence, Director at the Delta State Ministry of Justice, Asaba, Nigeria.
_______________________________________________________________________
