Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has urged senators to rise above politics and unite against insecurity as the 10th National Assembly resumed plenary on Tuesday, after the Sallah break.
In his welcome address, titled: “Renewed in Faith, United in Purpose,” Akpabio said the recess provided time for reflection, family and fellowship, and reminded lawmakers of the virtues of faith, sacrifice, compassion and service.
“I pray that Almighty God grants us wisdom and good health for the task ahead. For we are not merely representatives of constituencies, but custodians of the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians who look to this Senate for the realization of a greater nation,” he told colleagues.
The Senate President opened his address by mourning the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, describing it as “an assault on our collective humanity.”
“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,” Akpabio said.
He named two educators who died: Mr. Michael Oyedokun, who died in captivity, and Mr. Adesiyan Adegboye, who lost his life during the attack. A child was also killed before his promise could be fulfilled.
“On behalf of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the affected school community, and the Government and people of Oyo State,” Akpabio stated.
The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the victims.
Akpabio warned against politicizing the tragedy, saying criminals do not distinguish between party, faith or ethnicity.
“At moments such as these, there is a temptation to divide, to accuse, and to seek advantage from tragedy. Politicians and aspirants must resist that temptation for such cheap publicity,” he said.
He called on the Senate to support “every lawful and necessary measure to strengthen security, protect our schools, safeguard our communities, and ensure that every bandit faces the full weight of justice.”
The Senate President also congratulated political parties that recently concluded primaries and internal democratic processes.
“I felicitate those who have secured the mandate of their parties to seek elective office. I know that there will always be victories and disappointments. Yet above every individual triumph stands the greater triumph—the triumph of democracy itself,” he said.
Akpabio urged lawmakers to “differ honestly, but remain united in our devotion to Nigeria,” expressing confidence in the courage of Nigerians and the resilience of institutions.
“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.
“With faith in God, confidence in our country, and determination in our purpose, I welcome you back to the service of our great country, Nigeria. May God bless this Senate, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he added.
