Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe as a courageous leader who takes risks for the good of his people.
Speaking at Abaribe’s 70th birthday celebration on Saturday at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Umuahia, Akpabio commended the senator’s boldness, particularly recalling his decision to stand as a surety for the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
“When he signed the bail bond for Nnamdi Kanu, many questioned why he would take such a risk. But he told me he was prepared to go to prison on Kanu’s behalf,” Akpabio said.
He praised Abaribe’s steadfast leadership, calling him a “counselor, prophet, and lover of humanity” who has made significant sacrifices for the peace and progress of Nigeria.
Akpabio, who attended the event with his wife, Unoma, and several senators, acknowledged Abaribe’s role in his emergence as Senate President.
“My wife and I came to celebrate a man of integrity. Abaribe is a role model whose word is his bond. His unwavering commitment to his people has made him politically untouchable,” Akpabio stated, adding that Abaribe’s grassroots support ensures he remains a formidable political force.
During the event, Akpabio also extended an invitation to Abia State Governor Alex Otti to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying, “The day you join the APC, you will see how I will celebrate you.”
He commended Otti for organizing a state banquet in Abaribe’s honor, calling it a wise investment.
“When the Governor seeks re-election, he will realize this was money well spent. Abaribe’s grace will rub off on him,” he added.
In his remarks, Governor Otti praised Abaribe as a fearless leader who has made significant contributions to Abia State and Nigeria. However, he made it clear that the event was not about politics.
“This is not a political gathering. Politicians think about the next election, but leaders think about the next generation. I am simply fulfilling the scripture that calls for honoring elders,” Otti said.
He also dismissed recent speculations that he was secretly negotiating with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in London, affirming that his focus remains on governance.
“Someone claimed I want to join the PDP. How? In the coming days, we will celebrate other distinguished Abians, including Senator Chris Adighije of APC and music legends like Bright Chimezie and Paulson Kalu. What we are doing transcends politics,” Otti explained.
Addressing broader issues affecting the Southeast, Otti called on the federal government to tackle the root causes of agitation in the region.
“The Biafra struggle is not just about Nnamdi Kanu—it is about the Biafra of the mind. Our people seek equality, not preferential treatment. We are enterprising and only ask for fair opportunities,” Otti stated.
A visibly elated Senator Abaribe thanked Governor Otti for the honor, acknowledging the governor’s strides in healthcare and other sectors.
The event also marked the unveiling of Abaribe’s new book, Unbundled, with several dignitaries in attendance, including:
- Former Senate President, Adolphus Wabara
- Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Peter Nwebonyi
- Senator Victor Umeh
- Former Minister of Power, Professor Bart Nnaji
- Elder statesman Chief Onyema Ugochukwu
- House of Representatives member Hon. Alex Ikwecheghi (APGA)
Ugochukwu commended Otti for fostering unity in Abia by celebrating distinguished individuals beyond party lines. Ikwecheghi described Abaribe as a “dogged fighter and hero of the Igbo nation,” applauding his unwavering commitment to defending his people.
