By Our Reporter
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – President of the Senate, Godswill Obot Akpabio, on Tuesday welcomed lawmakers back from the Sallah recess, urging them to recommit themselves to legislative duties and the service of the Nigerian people.
Addressing senators at the resumption of plenary, Akpabio said the Sallah season offered an opportunity for reflection, family bonding, and renewed commitment to the values of faith, sacrifice, compassion, and service. He expressed hope that the lawmakers would return to their constitutional responsibilities with wisdom, good health, and dedication to advancing the aspirations of Nigerians.
The Senate President also congratulated political parties that recently concluded their primaries and internal democratic processes, as well as candidates who secured party nominations for elective offices. He noted that while elections often produce both winners and losers, the ultimate victory remains the strengthening of democratic governance.
Akpabio, however, said the Senate was resuming its legislative activities under the shadow of the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, describing the incident as a tragic assault on the nation’s collective humanity. He stressed that the inability to protect children and teachers poses a serious threat to the country’s future and educational foundation.
The Senate President paid tribute to two educators, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, who reportedly died in captivity, and Mr. Adesiyan Adegboye, who lost his life during the attack. He also mourned a pupil who was killed, expressing solidarity with the bereaved families and assuring them that the Senate shares in their grief.
Leading senators in a minute of silence in honour of the victims, Akpabio extended the Senate’s condolences to the affected families, the school community, and the government and people of Oyo State. He also expressed hope that ongoing efforts by security agencies would lead to the safe rescue of those still being held captive.
The Senate President cautioned politicians and public office seekers against exploiting the tragedy for political gain, stressing that criminal elements responsible for kidnappings and killings do not discriminate based on political affiliation, religion, or ethnicity. He called for national unity in confronting insecurity and urged continued support for measures aimed at strengthening security, protecting schools, safeguarding communities, and ensuring that perpetrators face justice.
Akpabio further urged lawmakers to remain focused on their responsibilities and conduct themselves with dignity, saying history would judge the Senate by how it responded to national challenges. He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s resilience and reaffirmed his belief that, through collective resolve and effective leadership, the country would overcome its current security challenges.
