The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, announces the withdrawal of all pending defamation lawsuits against individuals, saying a New Year sermon moves him to choose peace over prolonged legal battles.
According to Mediaplusng.com, Akpabio makes the disclosure on Thursday during a New Year Mass at the Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he says he directs his legal team to immediately discontinue the cases filed in court.
The Senate President explains that he had instituted about nine defamation suits against persons he accused of lying, slandering, and damaging his reputation. However, he says the message delivered by the priest during the Mass prompts deep personal reflection and a change of heart.
As reported by Mediaplusng.com, Akpabio tells the congregation that the priest’s sermon on peace, forgiveness, and letting go speaks directly to him, leading to his decision to end all ongoing legal actions related to defamation.
Speaking openly, Akpabio says that while the allegations against him caused pain and reputational harm, the New Year message reminds him that peace remains more valuable than vengeance. He notes that holding on to anger and resentment only deepens division and slows personal and national progress.
The priest, in his homily, urges worshippers to embrace peace as the foundation for a meaningful life. He stresses that everyone carries emotional burdens from past experiences and that true growth comes from forgiveness and release. According to him, letting go of past hurts allows individuals and society to move forward with clarity and purpose.
Akpabio acknowledges that the sermon resonates strongly with his current responsibilities as Senate President and a national leader. He says leadership requires restraint, wisdom, and the ability to rise above personal grievances for the greater good of the country.
He further explains that the decision to withdraw the lawsuits does not erase the events that led to them, but represents a conscious choice to start the year on a note of reconciliation. He adds that peace, unity, and understanding remain critical values Nigeria must embrace, especially in challenging times.
Legal observers note that the withdrawal of the suits brings an end to a series of publicised court cases that have drawn national attention. The move is expected to reduce legal tension and political distractions, allowing all parties involved to focus on more constructive engagements.
Political analysts also view the development as a symbolic gesture, suggesting that it sends a broader message on conflict resolution, tolerance, and responsible leadership. They argue that such actions can help de-escalate political disputes and encourage dialogue over litigation.
Akpabio reassures Nigerians that his decision aligns with his commitment to national unity and democratic values. He urges citizens to embrace forgiveness in their personal lives and communities, stressing that peace remains essential for social stability and development.
With the formal withdrawal of the defamation cases, the Senate President begins the new year with a public call for reconciliation, urging Nigerians to let go of bitterness and work together toward peace, understanding, and national progress.
