Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has urged political actors to avoid exploiting communal, religious and regional sentiments ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that no electoral ambition should come at the cost of a Nigerian life.
Akpabio gave the warning yesterday in his welcome address as the Senate resumed plenary following its two-month annual recess.
He noted that political activities for the 2027 elections had already begun and called on aspirants and candidates to concentrate on communicating their programmes and ideas to the electorate rather than creating divisions among Nigerians.
“Let the candidates for the various offices speak, and speak with conviction, for the causes they hold dear. Let the contest be vigorous; let it be open; and let every participant remember the country that must live together when the contest is over.”
The Senate President also cautioned politicians and their supporters against resorting to violence, intimidation and the spread of misinformation as political campaigns intensify.
“Let every candidate make a case and answer hard questions. Let every citizen be free to decide. We must reject violence and intimidation, and resist the falsehoods that travel swiftly and leave distrust in their wake.
“No electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life. No victory deserves celebration if it leaves the nation wounded.”
Akpabio further urged senators to remain committed to their legislative and oversight responsibilities despite their participation in political activities ahead of the elections.
He said the composition of the Senate, which includes lawmakers belonging to different political parties and representing diverse regions and political viewpoints, should serve as an example that political differences can exist alongside a shared commitment to national duties.
“This Senate must show the way. Within these walls sit men and women of different parties, regions and convictions, entrusted with the representation of one Republic. We shall continue to disagree, as a free Parliament must.
“Yet we must hear one another, conduct our affairs with dignity and fulfil our duties throughout the campaign season. The people sent us here to serve until the end of our mandate. There is work before us, and we shall remain at our posts in spite of the campaigns,” he said.
On the worsening security situation, Akpabio called on security agencies to step up operations aimed at rescuing Nigerians being held captive by armed groups and safeguarding communities facing threats.
He said the Senate would consider additional measures that could be implemented through legislation, budgetary allocations and effective oversight to confront the country’s security challenges.
“So long as a single Nigerian languishes in captivity, a part of Nigeria is held captive; and this Chamber cannot call itself free of the burden.
“We shall examine, through legislation, appropriation and oversight, what more must be done to end these infernal assaults upon our people. We cannot summon citizens to courage and then leave them to face danger alone,” he said.
Addressing economic concerns, the Senate President said lawmakers must take into account the effects of the cost-of-living crisis on Nigerians while considering economic data, projections and government reforms.
“We must examine figures, forecasts and reforms with care. But we must never forget how the economy is felt beyond this Chamber: by the mother counting the cost of a meal, the graduate searching for work and the small business owner striving to keep the doors open,” he said.
Akpabio also stressed the need for stronger preparations for flooding and other emergencies, urging authorities to ensure that early warnings are translated into concrete preventive measures and that relief materials reach affected communities.
“A warning must lead to preparation; preparation must lead to protection; and relief must reach the people for whom it is intended,” he said.
As Nigeria prepares to commemorate its 66th Independence anniversary on October 1, Akpabio called on senators to resume their legislative responsibilities with a renewed commitment to national unity and service.
“We have returned to this Chamber because Nigeria’s work continues. By God’s grace, we shall keep faith with her, and with the people who sent us here,” he said.
