Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue Nigerians still held in captivity and safeguard communities nationwide, stating that the nation cannot claim full freedom while any citizen remains in bondage. The call came during his welcome address to senators resuming plenary after a two-month recess, where he condemned the ongoing crisis of kidnappings and violence. 'No electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life,' Akpabio declared, warning that victories achieved through such suffering would leave the country 'wounded.' He emphasized the Senate’s commitment to using legislative tools, budget allocations, and oversight to address the root causes of attacks on communities. Akpabio also addressed the upcoming electoral cycle, advocating for peaceful political engagement and urging candidates to present their platforms without inciting divisions among religious groups, regions, or communities. He stressed that citizens must be free to vote without fear of intimidation, while lawmakers from diverse political backgrounds should maintain dignity in debates. 'The Senate will remain at its post and continue its legislative duties until the end of its mandate,' he affirmed, despite the start of political campaigns. His remarks underscored the need for unity and the prioritization of national security over partisan interests. The Senate President’s address followed a series of high-profile incidents, including the deaths of 37 miners in Niger and the detention of a Nigerian programmer in Russia, which highlighted systemic challenges facing the country. However, his focus remained on the immediate crisis of kidnappings, which have plagued regions like the North and Middle Belt. Akpabio’s appeal comes amid growing public frustration over the government’s response to insecurity, with many demanding greater accountability from security agencies. His statement also indirectly criticized recent controversies, such as allegations of anti-North rhetoric, which he had previously petitioned the Department of State Services to investigate. The Senate’s role in addressing these issues remains critical, as legislative action and budgetary allocations could determine the effectiveness of security operations. Akpabio’s emphasis on balancing electoral ambitions with national welfare reflects broader concerns about the impact of political competition on public safety. As the 2027 elections approach, his call for restraint and cooperation serves as a reminder that the true measure of progress lies in protecting lives, not in partisan victories.
Senate President Akpabio Urges Immediate Rescue of Captives, Warns Against Electoral Violence
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on security agencies to prioritize the rescue of Nigerians held in captivity and protect vulnerable communities, emphasizing that no electoral gains should outweigh human lives.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue Nigerians still held in captivity and safeguard communities nationwide, stating that the nation cannot claim full freedom while any citizen remains in bondage. The call came during his welcome address to senators resuming plenary after a two-month recess, where he condemned the ongoing crisis of kidnappings and violence. 'No electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life,' Akpabio declared, warning that victories achieved through such suffering would leave the country 'wounded.' He emphasized the Senate’s commitment to using legislative tools, budget allocations, and oversight to address the root causes of attacks on communities. Akpabio also addressed the upcoming electoral cycle, advocating for peaceful political engagement and urging candidates to present their platforms without inciting divisions among religious groups, regions, or communities. He stressed that citizens must be free to vote without fear of intimidation, while lawmakers from diverse political backgrounds should maintain dignity in debates. 'The Senate will remain at its post and continue its legislative duties until the end of its mandate,' he affirmed, despite the start of political campaigns. His remarks underscored the need for unity and the prioritization of national security over partisan interests. The Senate President’s address followed a series of high-profile incidents, including the deaths of 37 miners in Niger and the detention of a Nigerian programmer in Russia, which highlighted systemic challenges facing the country. However, his focus remained on the immediate crisis of kidnappings, which have plagued regions like the North and Middle Belt. Akpabio’s appeal comes amid growing public frustration over the government’s response to insecurity, with many demanding greater accountability from security agencies. His statement also indirectly criticized recent controversies, such as allegations of anti-North rhetoric, which he had previously petitioned the Department of State Services to investigate. The Senate’s role in addressing these issues remains critical, as legislative action and budgetary allocations could determine the effectiveness of security operations. Akpabio’s emphasis on balancing electoral ambitions with national welfare reflects broader concerns about the impact of political competition on public safety. As the 2027 elections approach, his call for restraint and cooperation serves as a reminder that the true measure of progress lies in protecting lives, not in partisan victories.