ABUJA, Nigeria — Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Sunday urged Nigerians not to lose hope, recalling that he introduced monthly prayer sessions to combat abductions, killings, and militancy during his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State. He said Nigerians must continue to pray so that sponsors of terrorism will be exposed.
Akpabio’s remarks come at a time of heightened insecurity across Nigeria, where kidnappings, banditry, and insurgent attacks have left communities reeling. His call for prayer reflects a broader tradition in Nigerian politics, where leaders often mix policy measures with appeals to faith and spirituality in addressing national crises.
But the comments have sparked controversy. On social media, reactions were sharply divided. Supporters praised Akpabio’s emphasis on prayer, saying faith remains a vital source of resilience in troubled times. “Prayer is our strongest weapon,” one user wrote. Others, however, expressed frustration, accusing leaders of hiding behind religion instead of delivering concrete solutions. “We need action, not sermons,” another user posted. “Prayer won’t stop kidnappers on the highway.”
Human rights activists were quick to weigh in. Groups such as Amnesty International Nigeria argued that while prayer can unify communities, it cannot replace accountability and reform. “Nigerians deserve functioning institutions, not just spiritual appeals,” one activist said, pointing to repeated failures in intelligence gathering and policing.
Policy makers and stakeholders also joined the debate. Some lawmakers defended Akpabio’s remarks, saying prayer sessions can foster unity and morale. Civil society organizations countered that the Senate should focus on legislation tackling poverty, unemployment, and corruption, which they argue fuel insecurity. Analysts noted that Akpabio’s comments highlight the tension between spiritual reliance and demands for tangible governance.
Social commentators added that the statement reflects a broader cultural reliance on religion in Nigerian politics. “It’s easier to call for prayer than to confront systemic failures,” one commentator observed. “But Nigerians are increasingly demanding results, not rhetoric.”
For many ordinary Nigerians, Akpabio’s appeal underscores the gap between leadership and lived reality. With rising inflation, unemployment, and daily reports of abductions, citizens say they want more than symbolic gestures. The controversy has reignited debate over whether Nigeria’s leaders are relying too heavily on faith-based appeals while neglecting the urgent need for reforms in security and governance.
