No One Deserves to Die, Senate Leader Warns Against Electoral Violence

The leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, has warned political actors against electoral violence ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that no Nigerian should lose their life because of political ambitions.

Bamidele made the appeal in a statement issued on Wednesday to mark the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to reflect on the values of sacrifice, peace and unity.

He said Nigeria must avoid repeating the violent patterns that have characterised past election cycles.

“No Nigerian, whether old or young, deserves to die again because some people are seeking political offices by all means,” he said.

The Senate Leader urged political parties and candidates to conduct campaigns and elections within the bounds of the law, emphasizing peaceful participation and national unity.

He cited historical data indicating that Nigeria recorded 1,639 deaths linked to electoral violence between 1999 and 2023, warning that the country must learn from its past.

“We must learn from our history still striped with the blood of the victims of electoral violence,” he added.

Bamidele also called for prayers and action regarding children and teachers still in captivity, referencing recent abductions in Borno and Oyo States.

He said the National Assembly remains committed to strengthening laws and institutions aimed at improving national security and ensuring harsher penalties for kidnappers and their collaborators.

“For us, kidnapping in all its ramifications is a crime against humanity, and it must be treated as such,” he stated.

He further assured Nigerians that security agencies are working to secure the release of abducted victims and restore safety across the country.