Godswill Akpabio, the president of the Senate, claimed on Saturday that he is the highest ranking Christian in the administration.
He urged Nigerians to continue serving God whatever of their status in life, attributing his political ascent to “the special grace of God.”
Leading clerics and political figures attended the blessing and formal opening of the Regina Coeli Parish Rectory in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where Akpabio gave a speech. His Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, released a statement in Abuja that included his comments.
The Senate President claimed that his rise from obscurity to the top spot in the country was evidence of God’s favor.
As the highest-ranking Christian in the administration, God has graciously and uniquely changed me and equipped me for the work that lies ahead. Although I practice all religions, I consider myself fortunate to be a Catholic. The majority of churchgoers are unaware of the church’s authority.
“If God can elevate me from a nobody to the Senate President and, consequently, the third-ranking citizen of this wonderful nation, He can do it for all of us. Just position yourself and get ready for His blessings,” he declared.
Noting that even the tiniest gift to church programs carries divine reward, Akpabio urged Nigerians to continue their dedication to serving in God’s temple.
“Know that God has welcomed your efforts whenever you contribute as little as 10 kobo to a church building project and it is finished and put to use.
He continued, “I am always excited to be part of the development of the church because nothing is too big for our God.”
Plans to open a new place of worship inside the National Assembly premises in Abuja were also revealed by the Senate President.
“I will gladly invite Nigerians from all walks of life to join us in commissioning a fitting place of worship for our God in the coming weeks,” he declared.
The Senate President and his wife, Dr. Unoma Akpabio, were praised by the Catholic Bishop of Uyo, Most Rev. John Ayah, at the occasion for their support of the church, which included entertaining Catholic bishops from around the country in Ikot Ekpene last September.
Additionally, he advised Akpabio to disregard critics.
“They talk about you because you are significant. Given your status in modern-day Nigeria, it is expected,” the Bishop stated.
Following allegations of attempted leadership machinations, Akpabio’s statement coincides with a renewed focus on Senate unity.
Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader, rejected rumors of attempts to remove Akpabio from office two weeks ago, calling them “unfounded” and capable of causing needless tension.
Bamidele’s response came after former Senate Chief Whip Orji Uzor Kalu said that certain legislators had previously attempted, but failed, to remove Akpabio from office.
He claimed that after important senators stepped in to keep the upper house stable, these initiatives were unsuccessful.
However, Bamidele urged senators to put legislative unity ahead of political maneuvering at plenary, insisting that there was no plan—past or present—to oust the Senate President.
