Akpabio blames rising insecurity on ‘Deliberate Plot’ against Nigeria

By Kunle Sanni- Abuja

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described Nigeria’s worsening security situation as a coordinated effort by hostile forces determined to destabilise the country, warning that terrorism, banditry and insurgency were being deliberately orchestrated to inflict pain on citizens.

Akpabio made the remarks on Thursday while addressing the 14th National Caucus meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

He told President Bola Tinubu and other party leaders that the scale of violence across several states had left many communities in mourning, stressing the need for unity within the ruling party to effectively confront the challenges facing the nation.

Akpabio said the APC must remain cohesive as it continues to grow, noting that expansion often attracts resentment and opposition, which could translate into security threats. He assured the President of the caucus’ support and prayers as the administration grapples with the situation.

The Senate President expressed sympathy with states affected by recent attacks and commended Tinubu for securing the release of more than 100 children who were recently kidnapped. He appealed for intensified efforts to rescue the remaining abductees and reunite them with their families.

He also paid tribute to members of the armed forces who lost their lives while protecting civilians and safeguarding national assets, offering condolences to bereaved families.

Akpabio noted that Nigeria’s peace and stability were closely linked to developments in neighbouring countries, applauding Tinubu’s diplomatic intervention in the Republic of Benin to strengthen democratic stability. He called for sustained regional engagement to curb cross-border security threats.

On legislative efforts, Akpabio disclosed that the Senate had taken firm steps to deter criminality, including moves to classify kidnapping as a terrorist offence. He said the proposed law, once signed by the President, would make kidnappers liable to capital punishment.