Akpabio opponents exploit insecurity claim sparks debate as Senate President accuses critics of using security challenges for political gain

Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Tuesday alleged that some political opponents of President Bola Tinubu’s administration were exploiting insecurity and other challenges to portray Nigeria negatively and gain political advantage ahead of future elections.

Also read: Akpabio demands action against terror sponsors in Nigeria

Akpabio made the remarks during the commissioning of the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway linking Ring Road 1 Junction to Ring Road 2 Junction in the Federal Capital Territory.

The Senate President argued that critics of the administration had shifted their focus to security concerns because they could no longer effectively challenge the government’s record in key sectors of the economy.

“If they did not say that nothing is happening in Nigeria, how would they go for the election? They have to say that,” Akpabio said.

He pointed to reforms in the petroleum sector, the removal of fuel subsidies and ongoing infrastructure projects as evidence of what he described as significant achievements by the current administration.

According to him, these developments have reduced the opposition’s ability to campaign on issues related to governance and economic performance.

Akpabio further alleged that some individuals were encouraging actions capable of creating instability and fear among citizens in order to undermine public confidence in the government.

“When they realise that they cannot talk about projects, when they realise they cannot talk about performance, when they realise they cannot talk about good laws and the transformation in the petroleum industry, they resort to other tactics.

“They start to recruit people to cause mayhem. They then kidnap people in order to give the impression that Nigeria is not safe,” he said.

The Senate President, however, did not provide evidence to support the allegation and did not identify any political party, group or individual allegedly involved in such activities.

He called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies in efforts to combat criminality and safeguard communities across the country.

“I want you all to be very vigilant. Be careful and watchful,” he advised.

Akpabio also commended members of the armed forces and other security agencies for their efforts in addressing security threats nationwide.

“Our men and women in uniform have done tremendously well. I am aware of that, though many people do not know,” he said.

Expressing optimism about the country’s future, the Senate President said Nigeria would overcome its current security challenges and urged citizens not to allow political disagreements to threaten national unity.

“Elections will come and go. Elections will never be our end. We will see the end of elections; elections will never see our end,” he said.