Terrorism sponsors must be exposed — Akpabio

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has urged Nigerians not to lose hope amid the country’s security challenges, insisting that those sponsoring terrorism and violent crimes must be exposed.

Mr Akpabio made the remarks on Sunday during an Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre as part of activities marking Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebration.

According to a statement issued by his media office in Abuja, the Senate President said Nigeria has survived several difficult periods in its history, including insurgency, political crises and pandemics.

Akpabio recalls prayer initiative as governor

Reflecting on his time as governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Akpabio said he introduced monthly prayer sessions to confront rising cases of militancy, kidnapping and killings at the time.

“When I had the opportunity to serve as governor about 19 years ago, I started monthly prayer. I used to ask myself a question whenever there was militancy, kidnapping and killing. I would say, what if we were not praying?” he said.

“Today I want you to ask the same question, the things happening around us, what if we were not praying. We must continue praying so that the evil doers and their sponsors shall be exposed in Jesus Name.”

He further declared that those behind insecurity, whether within or outside government, would eventually be uncovered.

“If they are in government, they shall be exposed. If they are outside government, they shall be exposed in Jesus Name. Those sponsoring it, whether it is politically motivated or not, may they never have peace until they are defeated.”

“Nigeria will overcome insecurity”

The Democracy Day service, themed “God of Hope, Actualise our Dreams,” brought together top government officials, religious leaders and worshippers to reflect on Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule.

Mr Akpabio acknowledged the pain caused by insecurity across the country, especially kidnappings and attacks on communities, farmers and travellers.

“There is no denying that insecurity continues to trouble our land. Communities have been attacked. Farmers fear returning to their fields. Travellers journey with uncertainty. Families mourn loved ones lost to violence and criminality,” he said.

The Senate President, who recalled his experience during the Nigerian civil war, said he understood the emotional trauma faced by families whose loved ones have been abducted.

“That is why my heart breaks for every child in captivity and every parent who lies awake through the long hours of the night, not knowing whether a son or daughter is safe, hungry, frightened or even alive.”

Tinubu government committed to security — Akpabio

Mr Akpabio assured Nigerians that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to tackling insecurity and securing the release of abducted victims across the country.

“We shall continue to act together, pray together, and continue to persevere until our children are safely returned and our nation is secure,” he added.

Also speaking during the service, George Akume said the Federal Government was intensifying efforts to reduce economic hardship and strengthen security operations nationwide.