Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged political parties and candidates preparing for the 2027 general elections to conduct their campaigns peacefully, warning against violence, intimidation and rhetoric capable of deepening ethnic, religious and regional divisions.
Akpabio gave the warning on Tuesday during his welcome address as the Senate resumed plenary after its extended recess.
He said political actors should be allowed to present their policies and competing visions to Nigerians, but stressed that the pursuit of political office should not come at the cost of lives or national unity.
‘No Electoral Prize Is Worth a Nigerian Life’
The Senate President called on candidates to engage in vigorous but responsible political debate and urged them to avoid turning communities against one another.
According to him, political differences should not be allowed to create divisions along ethnic, religious or regional lines.
“No electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life,” Akpabio said, adding that no electoral victory should be celebrated if it leaves the country wounded.
He also urged citizens to make their choices freely and called on candidates to answer difficult questions about their policies and plans for the country.
Warning Over Misinformation
Akpabio also cautioned political actors against the spread of false information during the election period, including the use of technology to circulate misleading content.
He said political campaigns should focus on records, policies and competing visions rather than narratives capable of creating distrust and hostility among Nigerians.
Senate Resumes Legislative Duties
The Senate President said lawmakers must continue carrying out their constitutional responsibilities despite the political activities surrounding the 2027 elections.
He noted that senators belong to different political parties, regions and political traditions but represent one country.
Akpabio urged members of the upper chamber to maintain decorum and respect for one another while continuing to debate and disagree on national issues.
The Senate President also addressed the country’s security challenges, calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue Nigerians held captive and protect vulnerable communities.
He said the Senate would use legislation, appropriation and oversight to examine what further measures could be taken to improve the security of citizens.
Akpabio also acknowledged the economic difficulties facing households and businesses, saying lawmakers must remain conscious of how government policies affect Nigerians.
With the 2027 elections approaching, he urged political actors to campaign responsibly and preserve the country’s unity beyond the electoral contest.
