Terrorism sponsors must be exposed – Akpabio
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged Nigerians not to lose hope amidst ongoing insecurity, emphasizing the power of prayer.
- He recalled introducing monthly prayer sessions as governor to combat kidnapping and militancy, believing prayer is crucial for exposing sponsors of terrorism.
- Akpabio acknowledged the nation's resilience, having survived past crises, but stressed that insecurity, including kidnappings and attacks, remains a significant challenge.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on Nigerians to maintain hope despite the persistent challenges of abduction, killings, and militancy, asserting that prayer is a vital tool for exposing those who sponsor terrorism. Speaking at an inter-denominational church service in Abuja as part of Democracy Day celebrations, Akpabio shared his personal experience as governor of Akwa Ibom State.
Approximately 19 years ago, Akpabio initiated monthly prayer sessions to address the rising tide of kidnapping and militancy in his state. He reflected on the potential consequences had prayers not been offered, urging attendees to consider the same question regarding current events. "We must continue praying so that the evil doers and their sponsors shall be exposed in Jesus Name," he declared, extending the prayer to those in and out of government.
We must continue praying so that the evil doers and their sponsors shall be exposed in Jesus Name.
Akpabio acknowledged Nigeria's history of resilience, having overcome political crises, pandemics like Ebola and COVID-19, and periods of despotism. "Twenty-seven years of democratic governance. Twenty-seven years of constitutional order and hope renewed," he stated. However, he cautioned against complacency, noting that "gratitude must never blind us to reality."
The Senate President recognized the significant pain caused by insecurity across the country, including violent attacks and the fear experienced by farmers and travelers. He urged for national resilience, stating, "There is no denying that insecurity continues to trouble our land." President Bola Tinubu has directed a low-key observance of Democracy Day due to the current security situation.
There is no denying that insecurity continues to trouble our land.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.