Former lawmaker Patty Etete has resigned as senior legislative aide to Godswill Akpabio, alleging persistent hostility, physical assaults and administrative irregularities in the Senate President’s office.
In his resignation letter dated 27 February, Etete said the step was long overdue, describing years of humiliation, discrimination and restricted access to Akpabio. Etete, who represented the Ikot Ekpene Essien Udim Obot Akara Federal Constituency from 2007 to 2011, noted that although he was initially announced as a special assistant, he ended up serving as a senior legislative aide, a role he considered demeaning despite accepting it in good faith.
He alleged that colleagues assaulted him on several occasions and claimed some incidents occurred with Akpabio’s knowledge. Etete also cited unresolved issues surrounding a symposium on the creative economy which he coordinated in support of the Senate President’s agenda. He said participants from Nigeria and abroad funded their own travel and materials, expecting reimbursement. More than six months later, according to him, bills from service providers remain unsettled and the interim report has not received attention.
Etete urged Akpabio to approve payment of the attached bill to protect the reputation of the Senate President’s office and honour the contributions of those he described as patriotic Nigerians. He added that he mobilised over 240 support groups in Akwa Ibom State for Akpabio’s political ambitions and that of Bola Tinubu, but lamented that promises made to these groups were not fulfilled.
He further referenced a vow allegedly made before a statue of Mary at Akpabio’s Asokoro residence, which he said symbolised a mutual commitment not to betray one another. He claimed a former deputy chief of staff insisted he must pledge allegiance before his support groups would be recognised.
When contacted, Eseme Eyiboh, special adviser on media and publicity to the Senate President, said he was unaware of the resignation. He described Etete as a respected colleague and noted that the office of the Senate President operates within structured public service rules, maintaining a healthy working environment and adherence to constitutional guarantees.
