Akpabio, Fubara throw ‘blows’ at Wigwes funeral

Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara engaged in a heated exchange on Saturday during the burial ceremony of the late Access Bank Chief Executive Officer, Herbert Wigwe, his wife, Chizoba, and son, Chizi.

The tense moment, captured in a trending video shared on X, unfolded as Fubara addressed the gathering, expressing his frustration: “This incessant turmoil among our political class, what purpose does it serve? The violence, the strife, what is it all for?”

In response, Akpabio took the opportunity during his remarks to offer his perspective: “Let me address the nature of this struggle. It’s not just about politics. Allow me to recount an incident from 2006 when I aspired to become a Deputy Governor. The then deputy Governor cautioned me, stating that the office held no wealth or power. He couldn’t understand why I desired it so fervently.”

Continuing his account, Akpabio recalled a moment of truth shared with the governor: “I was with a lady who accompanied me, and she boldly said, ‘Your Excellency, if the office holds nothing, then why not gracefully step down rather than resisting?'”

Akpabio described the governor’s reaction to this truth: “In his rage, he rose and attempted to strike the woman. I intervened, urging him to heed her words. ‘Your Excellency,’ I said, ‘there is no need for violence. The truth is evident: the allure of this office lies in its potential, not its current state.'”

Directing his words towards Governor Fubara, Akpabio concluded: “So, Governor Fubara, if indeed there is no value in this struggle, then I implore you, do not expend your energy in vain. Let us all strive for a purpose greater than power itself.”