The Nigerian Senate has launched a heated debate over the country’s escalating insecurity, prompted by a motion from Senator Lola Ashiru (Kwara South) calling for urgent federal intervention in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger states. The motion cited recent attacks, including the abduction of schoolchildren in Kebbi, and raised concerns over military withdrawals and compromised security operations.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin acknowledged that the security challenges are surmountable but stressed the need for international cooperation. “We should seek assistance from overseas, urging collaboration with global partners to stem the crisis,” he said.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described the current wave of insecurity as a turning point that must not be treated as business as usual. While welcoming the safe rescue of abducted captives, he expressed concern over the lack of information on terrorists neutralized during operations. He also cautioned lawmakers against grandstanding, referencing calls in the House of Representatives to shut down the National Assembly.
Bamidele urged the Senate to examine its internal structures, criticizing the Committee on Security and Intelligence and suggesting it be reorganized.
Opposition lawmaker Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe condemned attempts to blame past administrations, insisting that the current government must take responsibility for today’s failures. He cited reports that troops withdrew prior to the Kebbi school attack, demanding accountability.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio raised concerns over reports that the location of a brigadier general killed in Borno had been compromised, suggesting possible internal sabotage. He also condemned any attempts to frame insecurity along religious or sectional lines, stressing that the attacks target all Nigerians.
Tensions rose when Senator Seriake Dickson accused the majority caucus of managing rather than confronting the crisis, prompting an uproar from APC lawmakers and the cutting off of his microphone.
Meanwhile, Senator Adams Oshiomhole defended President Bola Tinubu, stating he is doing his best under difficult circumstances. He called for a probe into the troop withdrawal prior to the Kebbi school attack, suggesting those responsible be tried for terrorism—a motion adopted by the Senate.
Oshiomhole also highlighted perceived inconsistencies in the justice system, questioning why a convicted terrorist received 20 years while individuals who killed a bandit in self-defense were sentenced to death. Some senators are advocating for the death penalty to be imposed on kidnappers
