Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has launched scathing criticisms against the leadership of the National Assembly, particularly targeting Senate President Godswill Akpabio. In a recent interview on ‘Untold Stories With Adesua of Arise TV, Atiku accused the National Assembly of corruption and condemned its approval of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

Atiku didn't hold back, alleging that Akpabio has a history of misconduct, stating, "I was not surprised because I know the leadership is corrupt, no apologies about that. They could do anything, and the Senate President is known to have that type of character even when he was a governor."

The former vice president went further, claiming, "He was not only corrupt as a governor, but he was also in the habit of abusing women." Atiku claimed that he received numerous reports about Akpabio's behavior during his time as vice president, when Akpabio served as a governor.

Regarding the state of emergency in Rivers State, declared by President Tinubu on March 18, 2025, Atiku condemned it as politically motivated and an abuse of power. He called for the immediate reinstatement of the suspended Governor, Deputy Governor, and State Assembly members.

In the same interview, Atiku addressed other key political issues, including the 2023 elections and his choice of running mate. He defended his decision not to select Nyesom Wike as his running mate, explaining that he had consulted with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who advised him to pick a candidate from the Southeast. Atiku revealed that Obasanjo initially suggested Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala but ultimately supported Peter Obi.

Atiku also commented on his newly formed political coalition, which includes figures like Nasir El-Rufai and potentially Peter Obi, dismissing concerns about leadership conflicts. He drew parallels with the 2014 merger that led to Muhammadu Buhari's victory, emphasizing the need for a viable platform.

Turning to the state of opposition politics, Atiku did not spare the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from criticism. "Yes, definitely, the PDP is weak because we have a compromised leadership in the party, and there’s no doubt about that," he stated.

Atiku’s remarks are expected to ignite political controversy, especially with the 2027 election looming. His statements signal a continued effort to position himself as a key opposition figure, challenging both the ruling party and internal forces within the PDP.