12/04/2025
AKPABIO’S STATEMENT: A MASTERCLASS IN DIPLOMACY, NOT FEAR
Some media platforms are trying to twist Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s remark, “Trump is on our neck,” into something embarrassing. They want to make it look like he was afraid of the American President, Donald Trump. That narrative is false.
Anyone who understands international relations, diplomacy, and political communication knows exactly what Akpabio was doing. He is a seasoned lawyer and a skilled negotiator. He is one of the finest lobbyists Nigeria has produced, with decades of experience dealing with global leaders.
His remark was not fear. It was diplomacy expressed with humor. This is the same communication style used in advanced democracies to address sensitive issues without creating tension or misunderstanding.
Akpabio was reinforcing unity. He was strengthening Nigeria’s friendships with its international partners. He was also sending a subtle but important message about responsibility, national security, and mutual respect.
People with deep knowledge of media science and diplomatic language understood his intention immediately. He was doing the right thing and he was saying the right thing.
Let no one twist his intelligence into weakness.
What he delivered was statesmanship. Thoughtful, witty, strategic, and in the best interest of Nigeria.
Prof. Mgbeke