…Urges peace ahead of 2027 elections

Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has declared that no Nigerian deserves to lose their life as a result of political competition, warning actors against electoral violence 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 come at the cost of human lives, stressing that Nigeria’s unity and peace must remain paramount.

He also called for urgent prayers and collective action for children, parents, and teachers still in captivity of bandits and kidnappers, referencing recent abductions in parts of Borno and Oyo States.

According to him, Eid-el-Kabir should go beyond a yearly celebration and serve as a reminder of sacrifice, obedience, and national commitment, drawing lessons from Prophet Ibrahim’s example.

“As we enter the electioneering season, we must reject violence in all forms. No Nigerian, young or old, deserves to die because of political ambition,” he said.

Bamidele cited 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 unacceptable and preventable.

He warned that the pattern of violence—from 80 deaths in 1999 to 109 in 2023—shows the urgent need for restraint among political actors, security agencies, and supporters.

“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 also expressed concern over insecurity affecting schools and communities, urging intensified efforts to secure the release of abducted victims nationwide.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly to strengthening security architecture, improving social protection systems, and ensuring strict punishment 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 prayers and unity during the Eid-el-Kabir season, as Nigeria continues preparations for the 2027 general elections.