Akpabio Urges Rescue Efforts and Peaceful 2027 Campaigns

Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged Nigerian security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue people held captive and protect vulnerable communities, while saying the Senate would consider legislative, budgetary and oversight steps to support public safety. He made the appeal in an address welcoming senators back to plenary after an annual recess, as he also called for peaceful campaigning ahead of the 2027 general elections. Akpabio said the legislature had a responsibility to address insecurity and expressed sympathy for people affected by kidnappings, attacks and flooding during the recess. He said security agencies should pursue the rescue of captives and that the Senate would examine what more could be done through its constitutional powers. The reports did not identify a specific bill, funding decision or timetable for such action. In remarks on the coming election, Akpabio urged candidates and parties to make their cases openly and accept rigorous questioning, while rejecting violence, intimidation and divisive appeals based on community, religion or region.