Senate President's Aide Resigns, Claims Assault and Mistreatment

Patty Etete, who previously served as a senior legislative aide to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has stepped down, alleging persistent hostility, physical assaults, and administrative improprieties within the Senate office.

In a resignation letter dated February 27, Etete characterized his departure as “long overdue,” citing a history of humiliation, discrimination, and limited access to Akpabio.

Etete, a former Representative for the Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency from 2007 to 2011, mentioned that he initially accepted a “downgraded designation” in good faith when he was enlisted as part of Akpabio's inner circle of appointees. His role, originally designated as a special assistant, evolved into a senior legislative aide, which he found degrading.

He accused Akpabio’s office of fostering a hostile working environment, where he faced the denial of privileges and experienced physical assaults from other aides, with some incidents purportedly taking place with Akpabio's awareness.

Concerns were also raised regarding a symposium he organized to promote the Senate President's legislative agenda, which had attracted local and international participants. Etete noted that participants had funded their own travel and accommodation with the expectation of reimbursement, which remains unfulfilled more than six months post-event, alongside unpaid invoices from associated service providers.

In his letter, he requested that Akpabio approve payment for costs incurred during the symposium, emphasizing that it is crucial to honor the commitments made to those he referred to as “patriotic Nigerians.”

Additionally, he claimed to have rallied over 240 support groups in Akwa Ibom State for both Akpabio's and President Bola Tinubu’s ambitions, expressing disappointment over unfulfilled promises to appreciate their contributions.

Etete also referenced a vow made alongside some political associates in front of a statue of Mary, recalling a sacred commitment to support Akpabio’s ambitions without betrayal, contrasting it with conditions set by Akpabio’s former Deputy Chief of Staff, who allegedly pressured him into allegiance for continued support.

When approached for a response, Eseme Eyiboh, the Senate President’s special adviser on media and publicity, confirmed he was unaware of Etete's resignation and suggested the events around it were beyond his scope. He reassured that the working conditions within Akpabio's office adhere to proper public service standards, asserting the environment fosters a culture of mutual trust and respect among staff members.