Senate President Godswill Akpabio has made a startling allegation that most individuals attacking President Bola Tinubu and his supporters on social media are being paid to do so. This statement was made during a meeting with members of the Arewa Revival Project, a northern youth organisation, at his office. The group, comprising members from the 19 northern states, presented an award to Akpabio in recognition of his contributions to nation-building.
The Arewa Revival Project, led by its coordinator, Mustafa Ibrahim, aims to promote unity and development in the northern region. Akpabio used the opportunity to urge northern youths to intensify grassroots mobilisation for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. He warned that they would face strong opposition from critics on social media, but emphasised that the youths' voluntary support for the administration was a testament to its positive impact.
Akpabio drew a distinction between the voluntary supporters of the Tinubu administration and those who attack it on social media, alleging that the latter are financially motivated. He encouraged the group to engage Nigerians directly and counter what he described as misleading narratives about the government’s performance. This approach, he believes, will help to stabilise Nigeria’s economy and secure a better future for young people.
The Senate President defended the President’s economic reforms, highlighting measures aimed at reducing Nigeria’s dependence on crude oil revenue. He praised the government’s tax reforms and efforts to amend outdated laws, arguing that these changes would strengthen the economy. According to Akpabio, these reforms demonstrate the administration’s commitment to sustainable economic development.
Akpabio expressed confidence in Tinubu’s performance, claiming that the President had achieved an unprecedented level of development since assuming office. He stated that members of the National Assembly were satisfied with the President’s performance and had endorsed his bid for a second term. This endorsement, Akpabio believes, is a testament to the administration’s achievements.
The Senate President urged the northern youths to remain committed to mobilising support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He emphasised the importance of grassroots mobilisation and direct engagement with Nigerians to promote the administration’s policies and programmes. By doing so, Akpabio is confident that the administration can overcome the challenges posed by its critics on social media.
Akpabio’s allegations and remarks have sparked a renewed debate about the role of social media in Nigerian politics. While some have welcomed his call for grassroots mobilisation, others have questioned the basis of his claims about paid social media attacks. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, it remains to be seen how these dynamics will shape the country’s political landscape.
Key points
- Akpabio alleges most social media attackers of Tinubu are paid.
- The Senate President urges northern youths to mobilise support for Tinubu's re-election.
- Akpabio defends Tinubu's economic reforms, citing efforts to reduce dependence on crude oil revenue.
