As Nigerians mark Eid-el-Kabir, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has sent a dual message: end electoral violence and pray for children still in captivity. His appeal came in a statement released Wednesday from Abuja, reports Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka. Excerpts.
Bamidele warned that Nigeria cannot afford another cycle of bloodshed tied to elections. He said the 2027 general elections must be conducted peacefully, without loss of life for political gain.
He backed his warning with grim statistics from the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data. The report shows 1,639 Nigerians died in electoral violence between 1999 and 2023, with peaks of 800 in 2011 and 800 in 2011.
The Senate Leader said Prophet Ibrahim’s virtues of faith, obedience, and sacrifice should guide leaders and citizens during the electioneering period. He noted that nearly all parties have now chosen their standard bearers.
Bamidele stressed that Nigeria is a shared heritage that must not be sacrificed for ambition. He urged political actors to conduct campaigns within the law and avoid inciting violence before, during, and after the polls.
Alongside the political message, he called for fervent prayers for captives of bandits. He highlighted 87 children and teachers kidnapped recently in Borno and Oyo States, saying their release remains a priority.
He assured Nigerians that security forces are committed to rescuing the victims. At the National Assembly, he said, lawmakers are working to strengthen safety in remote areas and improve social security for young people.
The Senate Leader also pushed for tougher measures against kidnapping, describing it as a crime against humanity. He said perpetrators and their allies must face maximum consequences.
Bamidele observed that Eid-el-Kabir coincides with the 2026 International Children’s Day, making the call for peace and protection even more urgent. He decried attempts by a few to paint a picture of division among leaders.
Concluding, he urged Nigerians to use the season to recommit to national unity and prosperity. The statement was signed by the Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, Office of the Leader of the Senate, dated May 27, 2026.
