President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called on security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue Nigerians still held captive and protect communities vulnerable to attacks across the country.

Akpabio made the call on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, as the Senate resumed plenary after its annual recess, which began on July 23. In his welcome address, he said the legislature could not ignore the insecurity confronting Nigerians while lawmakers were away from the chamber.

The Senate President said the continued abduction of citizens remained a serious national concern, stressing that the country could not consider itself free while Nigerians remained in captivity. He urged security agencies to pursue the rescue of victims and strengthen the protection of vulnerable communities.

“So long as a single Nigerian languishes in captivity, a part of Nigeria is held captive; and this Chamber cannot call itself free of the burden,” Akpabio said. He added that the Senate would examine additional measures through legislation, appropriation and oversight to strengthen the government’s response to insecurity.

Akpabio also addressed the political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging politicians and candidates to conduct their campaigns without creating divisions along ethnic, religious or regional lines. He said contestants should be allowed to present their programmes and answer difficult questions while voters should be free to make their choices without violence or intimidation.

“No electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life. No victory deserves celebration if it leaves the nation wounded,” the Senate President said. He also warned against falsehoods and divisive rhetoric, while urging political actors to remember that Nigerians would have to continue living together after the elections.

The Senate President further urged lawmakers from different political parties, regions and ideological backgrounds to maintain decorum and continue carrying out their constitutional responsibilities despite the political season. He assured that the Senate would remain focused on its legislative duties until the end of its mandate, while also highlighting the need for stronger action on flooding and the rising cost of living.