I Have Forgiven Them – Akpabio Withdraws Court Cases Against Those Who Slandered Him

Godswill Akpabio, senate president, says he has forgiven those who defamed him and has withdrawn all pending lawsuits against them following a New Year homily that urged worshippers to let go of the past.

Akpabio said the message, delivered during the New Year service at Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, spoke directly to him and prompted an immediate decision to end years of legal battles.

The former governor said the homily focused on forgiveness and releasing painful memories so that peace could reign.

“I listened to the priest and suddenly realised he was talking to me,” he said.

According to the popular politician, he immediately instructed his lawyers to discontinue all cases he had instituted against individuals he accused of lying, slander and defamation.

The senate president said there were close to nine matters in court, adding that the decision was taken on the spot.

“I there and then directed my solicitors to withdraw all lawsuits against them,” Akpabio said.

Although he did not mention names, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is believed to be among those with whom the former Akwa Ibom governor had a stormy relationship in 2025.

The Senate President said the decision was taken in the spirit of the new year, describing forgiveness as a necessary step toward inner peace and a fresh beginning.