No one deserves to die, Senate leader warns against electoral violence

Senate leader Opeyemi Bamidele has issued a stern warning against political violence in the lead-up to Nigeria's 2027 general elections. He stressed that no Nigerian life is worth sacrificing for political aspirations, urging a commitment to peaceful coexistence and adherence to the law during campaigns and the elections.

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No Nigerian, whether old or young, deserves to die again because some people are seeking political offices by all means, whether justified or unjustified.

Commemorating Eid-el-Kabir, Bamidele called on Nigerians to embody the virtues of faith, obedience, and sacrifice. He highlighted the need for national reflection, emphasizing that the country must learn from its history and avoid the bloodshed that has marred previous election cycles. Citing data indicating 1,639 deaths linked to electoral violence between 1999 and 2023, he urged a collective resolve to protect Nigeria's heritage and ensure no lives are lost.

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Regardless of our political parties, we must go into the campaign, indeed, the 2027 elections, with a definite resolve that Nigeria is our collective heritage; that our activities must be conducted according to the extant laws; and that no life will be lost as a result.

Beyond electoral concerns, Bamidele also drew attention to the ongoing plight of Nigerians held captive by kidnappers and bandits. He specifically mentioned the 87 children and teachers recently abducted in Borno and Oyo States, calling for prayers for their release. He assured that security agencies are actively working to bring the victims back to their families and described the abductions as a violation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

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We must learn from our history still striped with the blood of the victims of electoral violence.

The Senate leader reaffirmed the National Assembly's dedication to strengthening laws and institutions to enhance national security. He pledged commitment to building a system that guarantees the safety of lives and property nationwide and to enacting stronger penalties for kidnappers and their collaborators.

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We must remember all our children and parents that are still held in the captivity of rogue elements in different parts of the federation, especially 87 children and teachers recently kidnapped in Borno and Oyo States.