The House of Representatives yesterday issued a strong warning to the Federal Government, stating that Nigerians may soon lose patience and rise in protest if immediate action is not taken to address the growing wave of insecurity across the country. This concern comes amid fresh reports of violent attacks by insurgents in parts of the North-East, with lawmakers calling for urgent intervention.
The House deliberated extensively on the matter during plenary following a motion raised by Hon. Ahmed Satomi (APC, Borno) concerning the recent explosion at the Giwa Barracks armoury in Maiduguri and the increasing attacks on military bases in Borno and Yobe states. Satomi’s motion sparked an emotional debate that included warnings of a possible public backlash if the situation worsens.
Yusuf Gagdi (APC, Plateau) did not mince words in his reaction. He noted that Nigerians are running out of patience, saying, “Until the right thing is done by us here, until government responds with action, not just media statements, don’t bet that any member of the National Assembly is safe.”
Lawmakers accused the Presidency of inaction despite the N19.7 trillion reportedly spent on security between 2015 and 2019. Ahmed Jaha (APC, Borno) painted a grim picture of recent attacks in his constituency, detailing how Boko Haram militants slaughtered farmers and overwhelmed under-resourced soldiers using advanced weaponry, including drones.
“In my constituency in Pulka, 10 peasant farmers went out… They were slaughtered by Boko Haram members,” Jaha said. He stressed the need for serious oversight, warning that insurgents are regaining strength and could soon reclaim territory once lost.
Zainab Gimba (APC, Borno) backed Jaha’s account, adding that foreign fighters had joined the insurgents in attacking military posts. She criticized the location of military formations within cities, suggesting they be moved to reduce civilian risk.
Shettima Ali (APC, Yobe) proposed a controversial solution, urging the House to create laws that would allow citizens to defend themselves. “Let this House create a law that permits our people to protect themselves,” he said, pointing to the limited number of security personnel and their unfamiliarity with local terrains.
In Lagos, Babajimi Benson (APC) noted that despite high spending, security outcomes have remained poor. He called for drastic measures and improved accountability.
The House adopted several resolutions, including an investigation into the Giwa Barracks incident, a review of security at military facilities, and demands for better protection of civilians and soldiers in volatile areas. They also directed the Committee on Army, Defence, and National Security to report back within weeks.
Meanwhile, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his welcome address to senators after the Easter and Sallah break, expressed concern over rising insecurity and economic hardship. He reminded his colleagues that Nigerians are watching closely.
“These are not just news headlines, they are the bleeding wounds of the republic,” Akpabio said, urging legislative action to support the executive branch in tackling insecurity and other national issues.
He called on senators to approach their duties with integrity and patriotism, noting that the current challenges require unity, discipline, and renewed commitment to the public good.
