A coalition of Nigerian diaspora organisations has thrown its weight behind the continued leadership of the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, saying his parliamentary conduct and style of leadership since the inauguration of the 10th Senate have contributed significantly to stability within the National Assembly and Nigeria’s democratic process.
The position formed part of resolutions reached at the end of an emergency meeting of the coalition held in Nashville, United States of America, where participants reviewed current political, security, and governance issues affecting Nigeria.
In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the groups noted that the National Assembly under Senator Akpabio has experienced a relatively stable legislative atmosphere marked by cooperation, reduced rancour, and improved engagement among lawmakers despite prevailing political differences.
According to the coalition, the maturity displayed in the management of parliamentary affairs has helped strengthen democratic institutions and fostered a more constructive relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government.
The groups maintained that continuity in the leadership of the Senate would help sustain legislative stability at a time when the country requires policy consistency, institutional cooperation, and national unity to address pressing economic and security challenges.
The coalition also appealed to politicians and political parties across the country to conduct their affairs peacefully as consultations and preparations for party primaries continue, insisting that elections should never be approached as a do-or-die venture.
The communiqué warned against inflammatory rhetoric, political violence, and actions capable of undermining the country’s democratic foundations, urging aspirants and their supporters to embrace issue-based campaigns, tolerance, and respect for democratic processes.
The diaspora organisations observed that Nigeria’s democracy has matured over the years and therefore requires responsible political leadership capable of placing national interest above personal ambition and sectional considerations.
On security, the coalition expressed deep concern over the resurgence of abductions involving school children and other vulnerable citizens in parts of the country, describing the development as painful, unacceptable, and dangerous for national growth.
The groups called on security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and deploy proactive measures aimed at preventing attacks on schools and communities.
They further urged state governments, traditional rulers, community leaders, and local vigilante structures to work closely with security agencies to improve surveillance and early warning mechanisms in vulnerable areas.
According to the communiqué, the protection of schools and learning environments must remain a national priority in order to safeguard the future of Nigerian children and restore public confidence in the country’s educational system.
The coalition also commended the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for what it described as his commendable representation of Nigeria during his recent engagement in Rwanda.
The groups said the President’s outing projected Nigeria positively before the international community and reinforced the country’s image as a key player in regional diplomacy, economic cooperation, and continental development.
While acknowledging ongoing economic and governance challenges confronting Nigerians, the coalition encouraged citizens to continue demanding accountability, transparency, and responsible leadership from public office holders at all levels.
The groups stressed that democratic governance can only thrive where leaders remain accountable to the people and citizens remain actively engaged in governance processes through constructive participation and civic responsibility.
The communiqué was endorsed by Dr Mike Uyi, President of Global Peace Movement International; Dr Olusegun Ademola, Chairman of The International Watchers; Dr Imatitikwa Igbinoba, Secretary General of Nigerian Heritage & Development Agenda; Dr Hauwa Ladi Usman, President of Sustained Policy & Reform Coalition; Dr Chidebere Chiamaka Ifesinachi, Chairman of Nigerian Interest Protection Forum; and Dr Beatrice Etim-Onyemachi, Secretary General of Diaspora Accountability Network Nigeria.
The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to promoting democratic stability, national unity, responsible governance, and constructive diaspora engagement in Nigeria’s development process.