December 19, 2025

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has openly endorsed the death penalty as a necessary response to the growing menace of kidnapping in Nigeria, arguing that only the toughest punishment can effectively deter violent criminals.

Akpabio made the remarks on Thursday while addressing delegates at the 14th National Caucus meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC), held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja. He also praised President Bola Tinubu for what he described as firm and proactive leadership in confronting the country’s security challenges.

According to the Senate President, recent successful rescue operations—particularly those involving abducted children—demonstrate a renewed determination by the Federal Government to safeguard citizens and restore public confidence. He offered prayers for the release of those still in captivity and paid tribute to soldiers and civilians who lost their lives during rescue efforts.

“Our thoughts are with the families of those who paid the ultimate price, especially members of the armed forces who died defending lives and property. We share in their grief and stand in solidarity with them,” Akpabio said.

He revealed that the National Assembly has already taken decisive legislative action to strengthen the legal framework against violent crimes, noting that kidnapping has now been elevated to the same legal status as terrorism. Akpabio said once President Tinubu gives his assent to the bill, kidnappers will face capital punishment.

“If we fail to enforce strong penalties, we risk emboldening criminals and encouraging further violence, jailbreaks and loss of innocent lives,” he warned.

Beyond domestic security, Akpabio stressed that Nigeria’s stability is closely tied to peace in neighbouring countries. He commended President Tinubu’s diplomatic engagement in the Benin Republic, describing it as a crucial step toward preserving democratic order and regional security.

“Nigeria cannot be safe if its neighbours are unstable,” he said, assuring that the Senate fully backs the President’s regional initiatives.

Shifting focus to internal party matters, the Senate President welcomed the growing number of political leaders aligning with the APC, including recently defected governors such as the Plateau State governor. He applauded the party’s National Chairman, Dr Nentawe Yilwatda, for strengthening the APC’s national structure and consolidating its recent gains.

Akpabio urged new entrants into the party to work closely with established party leaders in their states, drawing from his own political journey in Akwa Ibom State.

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“Respect the elders, appreciate their patience, and work with them. Unity is key,” he advised.

Reflecting on past political tensions in parts of the South-East, Akpabio said important lessons had been learned and emphasized the need for cooperation as the APC expands its footprint across the country. He expressed confidence that the collaborative political atmosphere seen in states like Enugu would soon extend to Rivers, Delta and the wider South-South region.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the Senate President expressed optimism that the growing strength of the APC would translate into electoral victories nationwide.

“Our unity must reflect in our votes. Together, we will secure victory for the APC in 2027,” he concluded.