A fiery session erupted in the Nigerian Senate on Wednesday as lawmakers clashed over the nation’s worsening security challenges, highlighting the growing public fear and loss of confidence in government protection. The confrontation came amid rising kidnappings, mass abductions, and violent attacks across multiple states. Okay News reports.
The debate followed a motion earlier in the day that commended President Bola Tinubu and security agencies for swiftly rescuing dozens of victims abducted in Kwara and Niger States. Sponsored by Senator Asiru Yisa of Kwara South, the motion also called for the immediate establishment of a Joint Task Force to patrol the Kwara–Kogi corridor, which security officials describe as a notorious escape route for criminals.
Senator Yisa voiced deep concern over the attack on Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, where gunmen killed two worshippers and abducted 38 others before security forces intervened. He also raised alarms about reports that soldiers had been withdrawn from a school in Kebbi just hours before bandits struck.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin called for international collaboration to combat the crisis. “We should seek assistance from overseas, urging collaboration with global partners to stem the crisis,” he said, stressing that Nigeria could still regain control with proper structure and support.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described the current wave of attacks as a defining moment for the nation. He cautioned that mere acknowledgment of the rescues without addressing gaps in the security apparatus could be disastrous. He also urged the Senate to critically review its internal security and intelligence committees.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe rejected arguments blaming previous administrations, insisting that the current government must take responsibility for recent security lapses. “Who asked them? Nobody knows. If I were the Commander-in-Chief, I would demand answers,” he said, referencing the troop withdrawals before the Kebbi school attack.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio highlighted intelligence failures and internal sabotage, noting that the location of a brigadier general killed in Borno had been compromised. “This country is under attack,” he said, emphasizing that the violence affects all citizens, regardless of religion.
Senator Seriake Dickson accused the majority caucus of downplaying issues, prompting tension and a temporary cutting of his microphone. Meanwhile, Senator Adams Oshiomhole defended the administration’s efforts while demanding accountability for the troop withdrawals, urging that responsible individuals face prosecution.
The session concluded with resolutions demanding investigations into military withdrawals and justice system inconsistencies, amid renewed calls for the death penalty for kidnappers. Recent incidents include the abduction of 24 female students in Kebbi, 38 worshippers in Eruku, and over 300 pupils and teachers in Papiri, Niger State—fueling national outrage and widespread concern over school safety.
