Senate President Mourns Victims, Urges Nigerians to Stand Together in Defence of the Nation
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has called for greater national unity and collective resolve in the fight against banditry, terrorism, and other forms of violent crime, declaring that those who attack innocent citizens do not distinguish between political affiliation, ethnicity, or religion.
Speaking during his welcome address at the resumption of Senate plenary following the Eid-el-Kabir recess, Senator Akpabio described the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State as a tragedy that has deeply saddened the nation and underscored the urgent need for continued collaboration in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
An Attack on the Nation’s Future
The Senate President stated that the abduction was not merely an attack on innocent citizens but an assault on the nation’s collective humanity and future.
According to him, the safety of children, teachers, and educational institutions remains fundamental to national development, stressing that no society can prosper if its schools become targets of violence.
“We mourn because if we cannot protect our children, we imperil our future. We mourn because a nation that cannot guarantee the safety of its teachers weakens the very foundations upon which education rests,” he said.
Senator Akpabio expressed profound sorrow over the loss of lives recorded during the attack, including dedicated educators and innocent victims whose futures were tragically cut short. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the affected school community, and the government and people of Oyo State.
The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the victims.
Hope for the Safe Return of Those Still in Captivity
While mourning the tragic loss of lives, the Senate President expressed confidence in the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies to secure the safe rescue of those who remain in captivity.
He commended ongoing security operations and reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly to support all lawful and necessary measures aimed at strengthening security across the country.
Rejecting Division in Times of National Tragedy
Senator Akpabio cautioned against attempts to politicize national tragedies or exploit the pain of citizens for political gain.
He emphasized that bandits, kidnappers, and terrorists do not discriminate in choosing their victims and that their actions represent an attack on Nigeria itself.
“Those who kidnap our children, terrorize our communities, and murder innocent citizens do not distinguish between party, faith, or ethnicity. Their assault is directed against Nigeria itself. Therefore, our response must be equal to the challenge. We must stand united, firm, and resolute,” he stated.
The Senate President urged political leaders, stakeholders, and citizens to remain focused on finding solutions rather than deepening divisions during moments of national difficulty.
Strengthening Security Through Collective Action
Senator Akpabio reiterated the determination of the National Assembly to continue supporting initiatives aimed at improving security, protecting schools, safeguarding communities, and ensuring that criminal elements face the full weight of the law.
He stressed that addressing insecurity requires not only the efforts of security agencies but also the cooperation of communities, institutions, and citizens across the country.
According to him, Nigeria possesses the resilience, institutional capacity, and collective courage necessary to overcome current security challenges and emerge stronger.
Upholding the Responsibility of Leadership
Addressing his colleagues in the Senate, Senator Akpabio reminded lawmakers that their responsibilities extend beyond representing constituencies to serving as custodians of the hopes and aspirations of millions of Nigerians.
He urged members of the National Assembly to remain guided by duty, patriotism, and the collective interest of the nation.
“Let us differ honestly but remain united in our devotion to Nigeria. Let us continue to conduct ourselves with dignity so that future generations will say that when Nigeria faced difficulty, this Senate did not falter; when leadership was required, this Senate did not shrink; and when duty called, this Senate answered.”
Democracy, Unity, and the Nigerian Dream
The Senate President also congratulated political parties that recently concluded their primaries and internal democratic processes, as well as candidates who secured their parties’ nominations.
While acknowledging that politics naturally produces both victories and disappointments, he noted that the greatest victory remains the continued strengthening of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
For Senator Akpabio, the path forward requires unity, responsible leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the Nigerian project.
As the National Assembly resumes legislative activities, his message remains clear: Nigeria’s challenges are real, but so too are the resilience of its people, the strength of its institutions, and the enduring promise of a safer, stronger, and more prosperous nation.
