By Queen Madaki
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has disclosed that the leadership of the Senate is making efforts to reduce the political setbacks suffered by lawmakers who failed to secure their parties’ tickets ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Bureau Journal reports that dozens of senators, including Senator Isah Jibrin Echocho, representing Kogi East senatorial district and others across major political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), lost their bids to return to the National Assembly after recent party primaries.
Speaking during plenary following the Senate’s four-week recess, Akpabio congratulated lawmakers who secured nominations while also acknowledging the disappointment experienced by those who fell short.
‘Democracy Remains the Bigger Winner’
According to the Senate President, electoral contests naturally produce both winners and losers, but the larger victory belongs to democracy.
“I felicitate, particularly those who have secured their mandates to represent their parties in the next election. I know that there will always be victories and disappointments, yet above every individual triumph stands a greater triumph, the triumph of democracy itself,” Akpabio said.
He revealed that the Senate leadership was surprised by the number of incumbent lawmakers who failed to secure return tickets during the primary elections.
Akpabio added that efforts were ongoing to ensure that affected senators were not left politically stranded.
“In this Senate, we have promised that we will have very few disappointments, and I do know that the Senate leader and the leadership of the Senate are working very hard towards that. So, in advance, I will say congratulations to all of us across party lines,” he stated.
Several High-Profile Senators Affected
Among notable senators reported to have lost their return tickets are Ned Nwoko, Gbenga Daniel, Danjuma Goje and Rufai Hanga.
The outcome of the primaries has reshaped the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, with several serving lawmakers now facing uncertain political futures.
Akpabio Raises Concern Over Oyo School Abduction
The Senate President also expressed concern over the reported abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, describing the incident as a painful attack on the nation’s collective conscience.
He assured Nigerians that security agencies and relevant authorities were working to secure the safe return of the victims.
“At moments such as these, there is a temptation to divide, to accuse, and to seek advantage from tragedy. Politicians and aspirants must resist that temptation for such cheap publicity,” he warned.
Akpabio called for national unity in confronting insecurity and urged citizens to support lawful efforts aimed at strengthening security across the country.
“Let us continue to support every lawful and necessary measure to strengthen security, protect our schools, safeguard our communities, and ensure that every bandit faces the full weight of justice,” he added.
The Bureau Journal reports that political activities are expected to intensify in the coming months as parties conclude preparations for the 2027 general elections.
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