Akpabio To Security Agencies: Rescue Captives, Protect Vulnerable Communities

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has charged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue Nigerians held captive by armed groups and protect vulnerable communities, saying the country cannot consider itself free while citizens remain in captivity.

Akpabio gave the charge while addressing senators on the resumption of plenary, amid renewed abductions in parts of Niger and Zamfara states, where more than 80 people, mostly women, were reportedly kidnapped in separate attacks on rural communities.

In Niger State, at least 47 farmers were reportedly abducted on Saturday while harvesting groundnuts in Rimi community, Mariga Local Government Area. Most of the victims were said to be women, according to security reports and local sources.

The Senate President said the recent incidents underscored the need for stronger action by security agencies and greater attention from government institutions.

“So long as a single Nigerian languishes in captivity, a part of Nigeria is itself captive, and this chamber cannot call itself free of the burden,” Akpabio said.

He said the Senate would use legislation, appropriation and oversight to examine additional measures needed to tackle insecurity and protect vulnerable communities.

Akpabio said Nigerians affected by abductions and violence deserved more than expressions of sympathy from government.

“Sympathies alone cannot discharge our duties. They are entitled to our attention, our resolve and the full force of our constitutional responsibilities,” he said.

He urged security agencies to pursue the rescue of captives and the protection of vulnerable communities with renewed vigour.

The Senate President also expressed concern over the impact of flooding on communities, farmers and families across the country, calling for improved preparedness and timely intervention.

“A warning must lead to preparation, preparation must lead to protection, and relief must reach the people for whom it is intended,” he said.

According to him, the effects of flooding extend beyond the immediate destruction of homes and property, as the loss of farmland could further threaten food security.

“When a farmer loses his harvest, our country loses food it can ill afford to spare. When a family loses its home, the nation has a stake in helping that family rise again,” Akpabio said.

He also acknowledged the economic pressure facing Nigerians, saying lawmakers must carefully examine economic figures and reforms while remaining conscious of the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on households and young people.

Akpabio cited mothers struggling with the cost of meals and graduates searching for employment as examples of the realities Nigerians face outside the National Assembly.

“There is work before us, and we shall remain at our post in spite of the various campaigns across the nation,” he said.

With Nigeria preparing to mark 66 years of independence, Akpabio urged Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices of those who fought for self-government and to work towards a stronger country for future generations.

“Patriotism requires clear eyes and a steadfast heart: clear eyes to see our difficulties, courage to confront them, and steadfastness to go on building Nigeria in unity,” he said.

He called on senators to focus on strengthening national security, institutions and opportunities for Nigerians while conducting political activities responsibly.

“Let us work for the safety of our people, the strength of our institutions, and a better chance in life for every child of this Republic,” Akpabio said.

The Senate President urged lawmakers to campaign with honour, 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,” he said.