The Diaspora Coalition has dismissed allegations circulating on social media that Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, made comments perceived as disparaging to Northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the claims as false, malicious, and politically motivated.

The coalition was reacting to a viral video by social media activist, Haruna Garba, popularly known as Garus Gololo, who alleged that Akpabio had stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would win the 2027 presidential election “with or without the North.”

In a statement jointly signed by six national and international advocacy groups, the coalition said its independent findings revealed that the allegation was baseless and formed part of a coordinated effort to tarnish the image of the Senate President.

According to the coalition, Akpabio's political career has been characterized by national integration, consensus-building, and inclusive leadership, making it inconceivable that he would make statements capable of undermining the importance of any region of the country.

The group maintained that the Senate President has consistently demonstrated respect for all sections of Nigeria and has built strong political and personal relationships across ethnic, religious, and regional lines.

"The allegation is entirely false, mischievous and part of a calculated campaign designed to damage the reputation of a man whose political career has been defined by bridge-building, national integration and inclusive leadership," the statement said.

The coalition noted that Akpabio's emergence as Senate President reflected broad national acceptance and support from stakeholders across the country, further underscoring his reputation as a leader committed to unity and cooperation.

It stressed that the North remains an indispensable component of Nigeria's political and social structure and argued that Akpabio fully appreciates the strategic role of the region in national development and democratic stability.

Describing the viral claims as an attempt to create unnecessary tension, the coalition urged leaders and stakeholders in Northern Nigeria to disregard what it called a "campaign of calumny" aimed at sowing division among Nigerians.

The statement further called on Northern political elites, traditional institutions, youth organizations and opinion leaders to remain committed to the ideals of national unity and political cooperation.

The coalition also appealed for continued support for President Bola Tinubu's administration, arguing that backing the President's second-term aspiration would be in line with the principles of equity, fairness and political balance that have historically strengthened Nigeria's democratic process.

It emphasized that the nation's progress depends on mutual trust and understanding among its diverse peoples and warned against efforts to exploit regional sentiments for political advantage.

Reaffirming its support for both President Tinubu and Senate President Akpabio, the coalition pledged to continue promoting peaceful coexistence, dialogue and national cohesion.

The statement described Akpabio as "a unifying national figure whose commitment to the Nigerian project transcends sectional interests," adding that his leadership remains rooted in inclusion, consensus-building and the pursuit of collective progress.

The statement was jointly endorsed by the Global Peace Movement International led by Dr Mike Uyi; The International Watchers chaired by Dr Olusegun Ademola; Nigerian Heritage and Development Agenda with Dr Imatitikwa Igbinoba as Secretary General; Sustained Policy and Reform Coalition headed by Dr Hauwa Ladi Usman; Nigerian Interest Protection Forum chaired by Dr Chidebere Chiamaka Ifesinachi; and Diaspora Accountability Network Nigeria represented by its Secretary General, Dr Beatrice Etim-Onyemachi.