- Senate raises alarm over growing insecurity in Nigeria
- Lawmakers demand answers on troop withdrawal before Kebbi school attack
- Senators blame weak intelligence and compromised operations
- Calls for federal intervention and overhaul of security structure
The Nigerian Senate has entered into a tense and emotional debate over the worsening insecurity in the country, with lawmakers warning that Nigeria is “under attack” and demanding urgent federal action to stop the rising violence in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger states.
A motion sponsored by Senator Lola Ashiru from Kwara South reopened fresh concerns over the security situation in northern and central Nigeria. He highlighted the recent abductions in Kebbi State, including kidnapped schoolchildren, and fears that military withdrawals and compromised security operations are worsening the crisis.
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Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin insisted that the situation can be defeated but called for international support.
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“We should seek help from overseas and work with global partners,” he said.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described the situation as a turning point, saying it can no longer be business as usual. While he praised the rescue of some abducted victims, he questioned why no information has been shared on the neutralized terrorists.
Bamidele warned against political showmanship and criticized suggestions from the lower chamber that the National Assembly should be shut down.
“We cannot abdicate responsibility,” he said. “If we want the President to overhaul the security structure, we must also fix our own committees.”
Opposition senator Enyinnaya Abaribe blamed the current administration for failures on its watch. He accused security operatives of abandoning the area shortly before the Kebbi school attack.
“Who asked them to withdraw? If I were the Commander-in-Chief, I would demand answers.”
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio revealed intelligence that the location of a brigadier general killed in Borno was leaked internally, describing it as possible sabotage. He also questioned how bandits broke into the Kebbi school despite multiple warnings and training.
A dramatic moment occurred when Senator Seriake Dickson accused lawmakers of looking the other way while Nigeria loses prestige. His microphone was cut off after APC senators challenged his comments.
Akpabio warned against blaming any region or religion: “There is nothing like targeting Muslims or Christians. The country is under attack.”
Senator Adams Oshiomhole defended President Bola Tinubu and demanded an investigation into the troop withdrawal before the Kebbi attack.
“Who ordered the withdrawal? That person should be tried for terrorism,” he said.
The Senate later adopted a resolution calling for a full probe into the incident.
Some lawmakers also renewed calls for the death penalty for kidnappers, while others questioned alleged inconsistencies in the justice system.
