Senate President Godswill Akpabio has declared that he is the “most ranked Christian in government,” attributing his political ascent to the special grace of God.
Akpabio made the remarks during the blessing and official opening of the Regina Coeli Parish Rectory in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The event was attended by senior clerics and political figures. His comments were later shared in a statement issued by his media aide, Jackson Udom.
Reflecting on his journey to becoming Nigeria’s number three citizen, Akpabio said his rise from obscurity was a testament to divine favour.
“As the most ranked Christian in government, God has specially and graciously transformed and prepared me for the task ahead. I belong to all denominations, but I am lucky and happy to be a Catholic,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in serving God, insisting that no contribution to the church is too small.
“Anytime you contribute as little as 10 kobo to the construction of a church building project and it is completed and put to use, know that God has accepted your contributions,” he added.
The Senate President also revealed plans to commission a new worship centre within the National Assembly complex in Abuja in the coming weeks.
During the ceremony, the Catholic Bishop of Uyo, Most Rev. John Ayah, praised Akpabio and his wife, Dr Unoma Akpabio, for their continued support of the church, urging him to ignore detractors.
Akpabio’s comments come amid renewed public scrutiny of Senate leadership stability. Recently, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele dismissed rumours of impeachment plots against Akpabio, describing them as baseless and capable of causing unnecessary tension.
Former Senate Chief Whip Orji Uzor Kalu had earlier revealed that previous attempts to unseat the Senate President were unsuccessful due to interventions by senior lawmakers.
Bamidele, addressing the Senate, reiterated that no such move—past or present—exists, urging lawmakers to prioritise stability and cohesion within the upper chamber.
