OpeyemiBamidele
Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has warned that no Nigerian should lose their life in the pursuit of political power, calling for peace and restraint ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs to mark the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, Bamidele said political ambition must never override the sanctity of human life, stressing that Nigeria’s unity and stability must remain non-negotiable.
He also called for urgent prayers and coordinated efforts to secure the release of children, parents, and teachers still held by bandits and kidnappers, citing recent abductions in parts of Borno and Oyo States.
According to him, Eid-el-Kabir should serve as more than a religious observance, but as a national reminder of sacrifice, obedience, and collective responsibility in the spirit of Prophet Ibrahim’s example.
“As we enter the electioneering season, we must reject violence in all its forms. No Nigerian, young or old, deserves to die because of political ambition,” he said.
Bamidele referenced data from the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data project, which he said recorded 1,639 deaths linked to electoral violence between 1999 and 2023, describing the trend as alarming, avoidable, and unacceptable.
He noted that the trajectory—from 80 deaths in 1999 to 109 in 2023—underscored the urgent need for restraint among political actors, security agencies, and supporters across the country.
“Regardless of political differences, Nigeria remains our collective heritage. All activities must be guided by law, and no life should be lost in the process,” he added.
The Senate Leader expressed concern over rising insecurity affecting schools and communities, urging intensified national efforts to secure the safe return of abducted victims nationwide.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly to strengthening security architecture, expanding social protection systems, and ensuring stricter consequences for perpetrators of kidnapping.
“Kidnapping is a crime against humanity and must be treated as such,” he said.
The statement concluded with a call for national reflection, prayers, and unity as Nigeria enters a sensitive election season ahead of the 2027 polls.