Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on Nigeria’s security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue citizens being held captive by armed groups, saying the country cannot consider itself free while Nigerians remain in captivity.
Akpabio made the call on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, in his welcome address as the Senate resumed plenary after its annual recess. He also urged political actors to avoid violence, intimidation and divisive rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Senate President said the plight of Nigerians abducted during the lawmakers’ recess should remain a matter of urgent national concern, particularly for families still waiting for the return of their loved ones.
“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,” Akpabio said.
He consequently urged security agencies to pursue the rescue of captives and strengthen the protection of communities considered vulnerable to attacks.
Akpabio said the National Assembly would also examine what additional measures could be taken through legislation, budgetary provisions and oversight to address insecurity and protect citizens. The call comes amid continuing concerns over kidnapping and attacks in different parts of the country.
The Senate President also addressed the political environment ahead of the 2027 elections, urging candidates and political parties to campaign without turning communities, religious groups or regions against one another.
He said political competition should allow candidates to explain their programmes and respond to difficult questions while citizens are allowed to make their choices without intimidation.
“No electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life. No victory deserves celebration if it leaves the nation wounded,” Akpabio said.
He further warned against the use of technology to spread falsehoods during political campaigns. In a separate part of his address, Akpabio urged political actors to resist the use of artificial intelligence to mislead voters, alongside his broader call for peaceful political engagement.
Akpabio also called on senators to maintain decorum and continue their legislative responsibilities despite the political activities surrounding the 2027 elections. He said lawmakers from different political parties, regions and ideological backgrounds could disagree while maintaining respect for one another and the unity of Nigeria.
His address also touched on the impact of flooding and the cost of living. He expressed sympathy for communities affected by floods and called for better preparedness, protection and timely delivery of relief to affected residents. He said the loss of farms and homes to flooding has wider consequences for food security and the economy.
The Senate President’s comments came as the National Assembly resumed legislative activities and as political parties and prospective candidates increasingly turn their attention to the 2027 elections.
Akpabio’s message placed security, peaceful political participation and the continued functioning of the legislature alongside the political contest expected in the months ahead. His call for the rescue of captives also places renewed attention on the responsibility of security agencies to protect communities and recover Nigerians held by armed groups.