“Who Am I to Answer President Trump?” – Senate President Akpabio Denies Making Comment On Military Threats
By Passman Akpos
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has distanced himself from reports alleging that he made a statement responding to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments threatening military action against terrorist elements in Nigeria.
Speaking through his media aide in Abuja on Tuesday, Akpabio described the reports as “false, mischievous, and politically motivated,” emphasizing that at no point did he issue any statement addressing President Trump or commenting on U.S. foreign policy.
> “The attention of the Office of the Senate President has been drawn to publications quoting Senator Akpabio as responding to President Trump’s remarks on Nigeria. This is entirely untrue. The Senate President did not and will not issue such a statement. Who am I to answer President Trump?” the statement read.
Akpabio clarified that while the Nigerian Senate remains deeply concerned about issues of national security and terrorism, it will not be drawn into any form of diplomatic controversy stemming from external political comments.
> “Nigeria values its bilateral relations with the United States, and our focus as a legislature is to strengthen internal security through democratic and lawful means,” the statement added.
The clarification follows widespread circulation of a viral social media post claiming Akpabio had “blasted Trump” for allegedly describing Nigeria as a “failed state that needs foreign intervention.” The post quickly gained traction, prompting debates across online platforms.
Political analysts say the denial was necessary to prevent diplomatic tension, especially after President Trump’s earlier remarks triggered mixed reactions from both Nigerian and American circles.
The Senate President’s office urged the public and media outlets to verify information from credible sources before dissemination, warning against the spread of fake news capable of straining international relations.
> “We caution media practitioners to uphold professionalism and verify statements before publication. The Senate remains committed to peace, unity, and responsible engagement,” Akpabio’s aide concluded.
With the clarification, Akpabio joins a growing list of Nigerian leaders seeking to de-escalate reactions following Trump’s controversial comments on Nigeria’s internal affairs.
