The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and a coalition of civil society organizations have declared their support for Senate President Godswill Akpabio, dismissing attempts to undermine his leadership.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, NYCN President Amb. Solomon Adodo reaffirmed confidence in Akpabio, emphasizing that his adherence to Senate Standing Orders is both necessary and commendable.

“It is the duty of all Senators, especially the Senate President, to uphold the Senate Standing Orders. The events of February 20, 2025, demonstrated the importance of maintaining order in the chamber,” Adodo stated.

Citing relevant sections of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended), he explained:

Section 2(2): Grants the Senate President authority over seating arrangements to ensure order.

Section 10(2): Requires Senators to sit in assigned seats for recognition.

Section 11(3): Allows seating adjustments due to political realignments.

Sections 56(1), (3), and (5): Authorize the Senate President to enforce procedural guidelines.

“Clearly, the Senate President acted within the law to maintain decorum. Unfortunately, certain political detractors and those displeased with the harmonious relationship between the Legislature and Executive have misrepresented his actions to incite discord,” Adodo noted.

He also warned of plans for a sponsored protest against Akpabio, aimed at tarnishing his reputation. “We urge Nigerian youths not to be used as pawns for political mischief,” he added.

Adodo further highlighted that previous Senators, including Orji Uzor Kalu, Ned Nwoko, Victor Umeh, and the late Ifeanyi Ubah, had undergone similar seat changes without controversy. He commended the Senate for referring the matter to the Ethics Committee, reinforcing its commitment to fairness and integrity.

“The NYCN and its civil society partners remain vigilant against attempts to derail the Senate. We urge the Senate President to stay resolute in his duties and reaffirm our unwavering vote of confidence in his leadership,” Adodo concluded.