Senate President Godswill Akpabio has returned to Nigeria after a short trip to London, putting an end to rumors about his health.

He arrived at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at about 4 a.m. on Monday, August 18, and was warmly welcomed by fellow senators, aides, and supporters.

Akpabio had been away to attend the Sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in Geneva from July 29 to 31.

Speaking to journalists after his arrival, he dismissed reports that he was seriously ill or hospitalized while in London, explaining that his visit was only for rest and official matters. He said, “There was never a cause for alarm.”