Oshiomhole Hails Akpabio’s Inclusive Leadership

….Says Senate President Uniting Political Forces

Former Edo State Governor and Senator, Adams Oshiomhole, has praised Senate President Godswill Akpabio for what he described as a leadership style anchored on inclusiveness, consensus-building, and political accommodation rather than division.

In a video currently circulating online, Oshiomhole commended Akpabio for attracting politicians from opposition parties into the ruling All Progressives Congress without intimidation or hostility.

According to him, several opposition figures are voluntarily aligning with the APC because of the atmosphere of engagement and cooperation fostered by the Senate President. In a humorous remark, Oshiomhole suggested that Akpabio deserved a Guinness World Record for the ease with which he has engineered political realignments.

The comments have generated reactions across political circles, with supporters describing the remarks as further proof of Akpabio’s bridge-building abilities and commitment to national cohesion. Critics, however, dismissed the comments as political praise associated with power dynamics.

Despite the differing views, observers noted that Oshiomhole is widely known for his outspoken political style, making his endorsement particularly significant.

Since emerging as Senate President in June 2023, Akpabio has consistently projected himself as a promoter of institutional cooperation, political stability, and inclusive governance.

In his inaugural address, he pledged to lead the Senate with fairness, integrity, and teamwork while placing national interest above partisan considerations. He also emphasized the need for lawmakers to focus on legislative responsibilities, security, economic reforms, and national development rather than political divisions.

Political analysts say the 10th Senate under Akpabio has maintained a relatively stable relationship with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, unlike previous assemblies that often experienced prolonged conflicts with the Executive.

The Senate President has repeatedly described the upper chamber as “a Senate for all Nigerians,” while promoting what he calls “servant leadership” and “uncommon leadership,” concepts that have become closely associated with his political identity.

Several public officials have also endorsed his leadership approach. Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo reportedly praised Akpabio’s developmental leadership style, while Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu described him as visionary and patriotic.

At the international level, Senator Allwell Onyesoh credited Akpabio with improving Nigeria’s visibility within the Inter-Parliamentary Union, describing it as a major diplomatic achievement.

Akpabio has also consistently advocated for women inclusion, youth empowerment, technological innovation, and support for persons living with disabilities, while stressing the importance of preparing Nigerian youths for a technology-driven economy.

In Akwa Ibom State, political observers say the working relationship between Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno has helped reduce political tension and strengthened cooperation across party lines.

The partnership, according to analysts, has improved political stability within the state and increased collaboration with the Federal Government on infrastructure, economic development, and social welfare initiatives.

Akpabio has also continued to align himself with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, supporting major economic reforms and infrastructure projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Lagos–Maiduguri transport corridor.

On security matters, the Senate President has consistently backed ongoing military operations against terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping, and banditry, while assuring Nigerians that the National Assembly would continue to support policies aimed at economic recovery and national development.

The statement, signed by Senate President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, maintained that Akpabio’s political approach continues to emphasize dialogue, inclusiveness, teamwork, and national unity.

According to the statement, Akpabio remains one of the country’s most influential political figures, with growing endorsements reflecting confidence in his leadership style and commitment to institutional stability.