By Abbanobi-Eku Onyeka
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday called for national unity in the face of growing insecurity, urging Nigerians to stand together against criminal elements as the Senate resumed plenary after the Sallah recess.
Welcoming lawmakers back to the Red Chamber, Akpabio said the break had offered an opportunity for reflection, fellowship and renewed commitment to the responsibilities entrusted to them by Nigerians.
Senate President condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, describing the incident as a tragedy that strikes at the heart of the nation.
He lamented the deaths of two educators, Mr. Michael Oyedoku, who reportedly died in captivity, and Mr. Adeshon Adeboye, who was killed during the attack, as well as a child who lost his life in the ordeal.
According to Akpabio, the attack was not only directed at innocent victims but represented an assault on the collective conscience of the nation.
“Our children remain in captivity, and as long as they are there, the nation itself is held captive,” he said.
The Senate President commended security agencies and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing efforts to secure the release of those still being held and reunite them with their families.
He cautioned against impatience in security operations, noting that rescue missions involving hostages require careful planning and precision to avoid further casualties.
Akpabio also warned politicians against exploiting national tragedies for political gain, stressing that criminal groups do not discriminate on the basis of political affiliation, ethnicity or religion.
“Criminals are attacking Nigeria itself. This is not the time for division but for unity, firmness and collective action,” he said.
The Senate President urged continued support for measures aimed at strengthening national security, protecting schools and communities, and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are brought to justice.
As part of the Senate’s response to the security challenges facing the country, Akpabio directed the Senate Leader to fix a date for the conclusion of the ongoing security summit being conducted across states, with the aim of producing recommendations and resolutions to enhance security operations nationwide.
The Senate President noted that the Sallah season embodied the virtues of faith, sacrifice, compassion and service, praying for wisdom, strength and good health for lawmakers as they continue their legislative duties.
