By Daniel Kudayah
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has warned politicians against using artificial intelligence, AI, to spread false information and cause division in the country.
Akpabio gave the warning on Tuesday as the Senate resumed plenary after its two-month annual recess.
He said campaigns for the 2027 elections had begun and political parties had chosen their candidates, urging politicians to focus on issues and allow Nigerians to make their choices freely.
Akpabio said political differences should not lead to violence or division along religious, ethnic or regional lines.
He said, “Let the contest be vigorous, let it be open, and let every participant remember the country that we must live together when the contest is over.”
The Senate President urged candidates to present their plans to Nigerians and be ready to answer difficult questions.
He said politicians could disagree without turning communities against one another.
“Let every candidate make a case and answer hard questions. Let every citizen be free to decide. We must reject violence and intimidation, and resist the falsehoods that travel swiftly and leave distrust in their wake,” he said.
Akpabio added, “No electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life. No victory deserves celebration if it leaves the nation wounded.”
Senate to focus on Nigerians’ challenges
As the Senate resumed, Akpabio said lawmakers would renew their focus on issues affecting Nigerians, including insecurity, flooding and the rising cost of living.
He said the Senate would use legislation, appropriation and oversight to address the challenges facing the country.
Akpabio expressed sympathy with families whose loved ones had been abducted and communities affected by violence and flooding.
He said the Senate could not remain silent while Nigerians faced such challenges.
According to him, the break in plenary did not mean that the problems facing Nigerians had stopped.
Akpabio also urged lawmakers to continue carrying out their duties despite the political activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
“This Senate must show the way. Within these walls sit men and women of different parties, regions and convictions, entrusted with the representation of one Republic. We shall continue to disagree, as a free Parliament must,” he said.
He added that lawmakers must continue to work together and serve Nigerians until the end of their tenure.
Calls for more action on insecurity
Akpabio called on security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue Nigerians held captive by armed groups and protect communities affected by insecurity.
He said the Senate would examine what more could be done through legislation, funding and oversight.
He also referred to the security challenges faced by some communities during the Senate’s recess, as well as the impact of flooding in parts of the country.
“As long as a single Nigerian languishes in captivity, a part of Nigeria is held captive; and this Chamber cannot call itself free of the burden,” he said.
Akpabio speaks on cost of living
Speaking on the economy, Akpabio acknowledged the pressure faced by Nigerian households and businesses.
He said the impact of the economy could be seen in the daily struggles of families, graduates and small business owners.
“We must examine figures, forecasts and reforms with care. But we must never forget how the economy is felt beyond this Chamber: by the mother counting the cost of a meal, the graduate searching for work and the small business owner striving to keep the doors open,” he said.
The Senate President also called for better preparation for flooding, saying disasters affecting farmers and households could have wider effects on the economy.
“A warning must lead to preparation; preparation must lead to protection; and relief must reach the people for whom it is intended,” he said.
Nigeria at 66
As Nigeria prepares to mark its 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, Akpabio urged senators to return to their duties with a renewed commitment to national unity.
