Akpabio Warns 2027 Candidates Against Violence, Intimidation

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has warned politicians and candidates contesting the 2027 general elections against violence, intimidation and campaigns that could deepen divisions among Nigerians.

Akpabio gave the warning on Tuesday as the Senate resumed plenary, urging political actors to conduct their campaigns with restraint and allow citizens to freely choose their leaders.

He called on candidates to present their policies and visions vigorously without turning communities against one another or exploiting religious, regional and other differences.

“We must reject violence and intimidation, and resist the falsehoods that travel swiftly and leave distrust in their wake,” he said.

Akpabio said no electoral victory was worth the loss of a Nigerian life, urging politicians to recognise that the country would remain united after the elections.

He said candidates could disagree politically without setting communities, religious groups or regions against one another.

“Those who seek office need not see eye to eye to walk hand in hand as Nigerians,” he said.

The Senate President also urged lawmakers to set an example by maintaining decorum and continuing their legislative responsibilities despite the political activities leading to the 2027 elections.

He said senators represented one country despite belonging to different political parties, regions and holding different convictions.

Akpabio acknowledged that lawmakers would continue to disagree on issues but stressed that such disagreements should be conducted with dignity and within the bounds of their responsibilities.

“The people sent us here to serve until the end of our mandate. There is work before us, and we shall remain at our posts despite the campaigns,” he said.

He urged politicians to approach the election season with restraint and responsibility, calling for campaigns based on issues, conviction and respect for the electorate.

“Let us campaign with honour, debate with conviction and serve with humility,” Akpabio said.