Akpabio Disowns Alleged ‘Satanic Rally’ in His Support, Calls for Police Intervention

The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has strongly denied any connection to a planned rally supposedly organized in his support in Akwa Ibom State on April 4, 2025.

The event, allegedly arranged by a group known as the Progressive Peoples’ Resolution (PPR) and led by Ubong Idemudo, has been dismissed by Akpabio as an unauthorized gathering designed to serve ulterior motives.

Akpabio’s Official Statement

In a press release issued on Thursday, April 3, 2025, through his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, the Senate President labeled the planned rally as the work of “fifth columnists” aiming to exploit his name for undisclosed and potentially harmful purposes.

The statement, titled:
“Disregard Any Rally in Akwa Ibom Purported to be in Support of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, GCON,”
expressed Akpabio’s disapproval and urged security agencies to prevent the gathering

Denial of Knowledge:
“The President of the Senate is not aware of any rally organized in his support at any venue in Akwa Ibom and therefore urges his supporters and the peace-loving people of Akwa Ibom State to disregard such rally and go about their lawful duties.”

Warning Against Manipulation:
“The planned rally, from information pieced together, is the handiwork of fifth columnists trying to use the name of the Senate President to achieve their devilish goal.”

Directive to Security Agencies:
“The Police and other security agencies in the state are by this statement directed to ensure that such satanic rally is not allowed to hold, as such has no approval of the Senate President.”

Concerns Over the Rally’s Organizers

The Progressive Peoples’ Resolution (PPR), led by Ubong Idemudo, has been described as a controversial group. Reports indicate that Idemudo has previously been linked to activities that have sparked controversy in the region.

Sources suggest that the rally could be a ploy by certain political actors to stir unrest or to create the impression of Akpabio’s involvement in activities outside his political agenda.

Political Reactions and Security Implications

Akpabio’s swift disassociation from the rally comes amid heightened political tensions in Akwa Ibom and other regions. Analysts believe that factions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition groups may be maneuvering to influence public perception ahead of upcoming political contests.

Security experts have also warned that unauthorized rallies could pose a risk of violence, especially when linked to high-profile figures like the Senate President.

In response, Akwa Ibom’s security agencies have reportedly been put on high alert to prevent any unauthorized gathering that could lead to unrest.

While many Akwa Ibom residents have welcomed Akpabio’s position, some political observers are calling for further investigations into the motives behind the rally’s organizers.

A local resident, Michael Essien, noted:
“We have seen situations where politicians deny involvement in events, only for later revelations to show some level of indirect backing. The authorities must investigate who is truly behind this rally and what their real agenda is.”

Meanwhile, Akpabio’s supporters have praised his decisive stance, arguing that it aligns with his commitment to peace and stability in Akwa Ibom and across Nigeria.

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, political maneuvers and public campaigns are expected to increase. Akpabio’s firm rejection of the rally serves as a warning against political opportunism and manipulation.

With security agencies now monitoring the situation, it remains to be seen whether the Progressive Peoples’ Resolution (PPR) will proceed with the rally or reconsider its plans.

Stay tuned for further updates.