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The Senate has launched a vigorous debate on Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation following a motion by Lola Ashiru of Kwara South, calling for urgent federal intervention in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger states.
Ashiru’s motion highlighted recent attacks, including the abduction of schoolchildren in Kebbi, and raised concerns over military withdrawals and compromised operations.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin described the security challenges as surmountable but urged international collaboration to tackle the crisis.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele warned that the country risks serious consequences unless decisive measures are taken. While he welcomed the safe rescue of abducted victims, he questioned why no information had been provided on the terrorists neutralised during operations.
Bamidele cautioned against grandstanding by lawmakers, referring to calls in the House of Representatives for a National Assembly shutdown, and urged the Senate to review its internal structures, particularly the Committee on Security and Intelligence.
Opposition senator Enyinnaya Abaribe criticised attempts to shift blame onto previous administrations, insisting that the current government must take responsibility. He cited reports that troops had withdrawn shortly before the Kebbi school attack and demanded accountability.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio raised concerns about possible internal sabotage, noting that the location of a brigadier general killed in Borno had been compromised. He also condemned bandits’ ability to breach security measures provided to students in Kebbi.
During the debate, Senator Seriake Dickson argued that Nigeria is losing prestige and integrity, accusing the majority caucus of managing rather than confronting security challenges. His remarks triggered an uproar among APC lawmakers, and his microphone was cut off.
Akpabio rejected claims that the attacks were religiously or regionally motivated, emphasising that “the country is under attack” and that all citizens are affected.
Meanwhile, Senator Adams Oshiomhole defended President Bola Tinubu, asserting that he is managing a difficult situation. Oshiomhole called for an investigation into the troop withdrawal before the Kebbi school abduction and highlighted inconsistencies in the justice system, contrasting sentences for terrorists and those defending themselves against bandits.
Several lawmakers are also pressing for the death penalty to be imposed on kidnappers, reflecting growing frustration over escalating insecurity.
