At the inauguration of the [All Progressives Congress (APC)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Progressives_Congress) Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 general election in Abuja on Wednesday, Senate President [Godswill Akpabio](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Godswill_Akpabio) appealed to President [Bola Tinubu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bola_Tinubu) to persuade the leadership of the [National Assembly](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Assembly_(Nigeria)) to seek a second term, asserting that the legislature remains firmly behind the president’s administration.
"If the National Assembly is so much with you, why don’t you encourage them to come back and support you in the second term?" Akpabio asked, emphasizing that any attempt to undermine Tinubu through parliamentary maneuvers would fail because lawmakers were already aligned with the executive.
He added, "Nobody can break through the National Assembly to dislodge you. We are solidly behind you," reinforcing his confidence in the legislature’s loyalty.
**What did Akpabio say about lawmakers’ participation?**
Several senators reportedly wanted to accompany him to the council launch. Akpabio said he had sought Tinubu’s permission before bringing additional legislators to future campaign events, noting, "When I was coming, a lot of senators were dragging my clothes and saying, ‘are you leaving us behind?’" He also requested permission to include the Senate minority leader and other opposition members in upcoming gatherings.
**Why did he caution governors?**
In a separate segment, Akpabio warned state governors not to desert their constituents in pursuit of other political ambitions before completing their constitutional eight‑year tenure. "I did eight years as a governor, and the constitution says you should do eight years. There’s no need for you to start eyeing another position that is not available," he said.
Although he did not name any governor, his remarks came shortly after Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma announced his intention to run for the Senate in 2027, declaring, "I will be on the ballot as a senatorial candidate." Akpabio, a former two‑term governor of Akwa Ibom and a veteran of Nigerian politics for over 25 years, stressed that his electoral success stemmed from staying connected with the people.
The speech highlighted Akpabio’s dual focus: securing continued legislative backing for Tinubu while urging governors to honour their mandates before seeking higher office.