President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday warned politicians and candidates contesting the 2027 general elections against violence, intimidation, and divisive campaigns.
He gave the warning as the Senate resumed plenary, urging political actors to conduct their campaigns with restraint and allow Nigerians to freely choose their leaders.
Akpabio said candidates should vigorously present their policies and visions without turning communities against one another or exploiting religious, regional, and other divisions.
He said, “We must reject violence and intimidation and resist the falsehoods that travel swiftly and leave distrust in their wake. No electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life. No victory deserves celebration if it leaves the nation wounded.”
Akpabio noted that campaigns for the 2027 elections had already commenced, with political parties choosing their candidates and citizens preparing to assess competing visions.
He urged candidates to engage in robust debate while remembering that the country would remain united after the elections.
“Those who seek office need not see eye to eye to walk hand in hand as Nigerians. We can contend without setting community against community, faith against faith, or one part of our republic against another,” he said.
The Senate President also charged lawmakers to set an example by maintaining decorum and discharging their legislative responsibilities despite the political activities ahead of the elections.
“This Senate must show the way. Within these walls sit men and women of different parties, regions, and convictions, entrusted with the representation of one republic,” he said.
Akpabio said lawmakers would continue to disagree on issues but must conduct their affairs with dignity and remain focused on their mandate.
“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.
“Let us campaign with honor, debate with conviction, and serve with humility. We have returned to this chamber because Nigeria’s work continues. By God’s grace, we shall keep faith with her and with the people who sent us here,” Akpabio said.
