Nigeria's Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed sympathy with victims of kidnapping, terror attacks, and flooding across the country. He acknowledged the responsibility of the legislature to address the country's security challenges. In his address welcoming colleagues back to plenary after a nine-week annual recess, Mr. Akpabio stated that the Senate must do more to ensure the safety of citizens. He condoled with those who have lost loved ones and those affected by violence and flooding.
Mr. Akpabio lamented the increasing cases of kidnapping across the country, stating that as long as a Nigerian remains in captivity, a part of the country is also being held captive. He said the Senate shares the burden of those affected and called on security agencies to ensure the rescue of those in captivity and protect vulnerable communities. The Senate president also urged the legislature to work towards strengthening the protection and security of citizens through legislative interventions.
Data from SBM Intelligence showed that 7,825 people were kidnapped in 1,411 incidents between July 2025 and June 2026, with at least ₦7.78 billion paid in ransom during the period. Kidnapping has remained a persistent challenge in the country, with schools being targeted by armed groups. In May 2026, armed assailants attacked schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State and abducted pupils and teachers. The victims spent 56 days in captivity before security forces rescued those who remained alive in July.
Places of worship have also become targets of attacks. In January 2026, armed men attacked three churches in Kurmin Wali, Kaduna State, during Sunday services, abducting over 150 worshippers. Local authorities and community leaders reported varying figures as efforts continued to account for the victims. The attacks have not been limited to Christian places of worship, with hundreds of worshippers reportedly abducted during attacks around mosques in Niger State in August.
Mr. Akpabio also sympathized with victims of flooding, saying the country needs adequate preparation, protection, and relief measures for affected communities. He stated that a warning must lead to preparation, preparation must lead to protection, and relief must reach the people for whom it is intended. The senate president acknowledged the rising cost of living and the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians, saying the chamber is aware of the economic difficulties confronting citizens.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Mr. Akpabio urged candidates and political parties to avoid politics that could undermine the country's unity. He called on them to desist from violence and intimidation, stating that no electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life. The senate president also urged his fellow senators to conduct themselves with dignity, humility, and unity during the campaign season, saying the Senate must show the way.
Mr. Akpabio felicitated with Nigerians ahead of the country's 66th independence anniversary, saying those who fought for the country's freedom should be honored for their patriotism. He emphasized the need for unity and cooperation, saying the contest for Nigeria's future must be conducted in a manner that promotes peace and stability.
Key points
- The Senate President emphasized the need for the government to prioritize the safety and security of citizens.
- Mr. Akpabio urged candidates and political parties to avoid politics that could undermine the country's unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The senate president sympathized with victims of kidnapping, terror attacks, and flooding, and acknowledged the rising cost of living and economic difficulties confronting citizens.
