Senate President Godswill Akpabio has refuted a viral social media post that falsely quoted him as making light of killings in Nigeria and criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump, calling it a malicious fabrication intended to stir diplomatic friction.
The post, circulated by a platform known as Rant HQ, claimed Akpabio said: “The killing is taking place in Nigeria, not in the USA.
Trump should focus on the US. Nigerians are not complaining about the killings; we are fully satisfied with the condition of Nigeria.”
In a swift rebuttal on Sunday, Akpabio’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, described the post as “a total falsehood, a product of mischief, and a desperate attempt to incite misunderstanding between Senator Akpabio and President Trump, as well as between Nigeria and its international partners.”
Eyiboh stressed that the Senate President never made such a statement “publicly, privately, in writing, or in conversation,” and challenged the authors to provide any evidence to substantiate their claims.
He explained that the photograph attached to the post, showing Akpabio at an official event with other senators, was deceitfully used to give credibility to the fake quote.
“Senator Akpabio is a statesman of global repute and a respected advocate of international friendship, diplomacy, and mutual respect among nations,” Eyiboh said.
“He holds President Trump in high regard as a historic figure and a leader of a great nation.”
He cautioned purveyors of misinformation to desist from what he termed “digital recklessness” and urged the public to disregard the viral publication.
“The Office of the President of the Senate remains committed to transparency, truth, and responsible communication both in Nigeria and on the international stage,” Eyiboh added.
