Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed concerns over the dwindling support for former Akwa Ibom State governor, Godswill Akpabio’s bid for the Senate presidency. In a bid to bolster his backing, Shettima has vowed to woo additional supporters ahead of the National Assembly leadership election scheduled for tomorrow.
During a critical pre-election meeting held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, only 52 senators attended the gathering convened by the Stability Group, which is actively supporting Akpabio’s aspiration. The purpose of the meeting was to assess Akpabio’s popularity in comparison to former Zamfara State governor, Abdulaziz Yari.
Akpabio, however, remains confident in his support base, claiming that the number of senators-elect backing him has increased to 80, despite the original count of 73 signatories in support of his candidacy. Dave Umahi, the immediate past governor of Ebonyi State, attributed the low attendance to the short notice given for the meeting.
To secure victory in the upcoming election, Akpabio needs at least 55 votes from the 109 senators-elect. The meeting, graced by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume, focused on strategizing ways to garner support for Akpabio’s candidacy.
Shettima, in his appeal to his colleagues, stated, “We are talking about sustainability of the nation. The country is at a threshold. I am ready to be on my knees to beg my colleagues. I don’t want to mention their names, but I am sure I will bring about five to join this group. My friend, Ibrahim Geidam, will give us all the senators from Yobe State. I am working on Taraba. Let me leave it here. I don’t want to expose all my strategies. This is about the survival of the nation.”
He further emphasized the importance of inclusivity and the need for a Christian to occupy the position of the Number Three Person, considering the current Muslim president and vice president in a multi-ethnic country like Nigeria.
Akume echoed his support for Akpabio, stating that even before his appointment as SGF, he had already identified with Akpabio’s ambition. He emphasized Akpabio’s experience in both the executive and legislative branches of government, which has enabled him to appreciate the importance of building a strong nation where all parts are represented.
Expressing gratitude for the support received, Akpabio thanked the party, the President, Vice President, and his colleagues. He expressed confidence in the support of 80 senators when the vote is taken tomorrow.
Meanwhile, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has raised an alarm over an alleged plan to arrest key northern aspirants vying for the positions of House of Representatives Speaker and Senate President. The group claimed that Abdulaziz Yari and some of his supporters were being threatened with arrest to coerce him out of the contest. The CNG urged President Buhari to intervene and put an end to this perceived plot, emphasizing the need for good and impartial governance.
As the National Assembly leadership election draws near, the outcome remains uncertain. The contenders and their supporters are engaging in intense lobbying and strategizing, making every effort to secure the necessary votes to achieve their ambitions.
