Senate Raises Alarm Over Security Threat to Abuja

• Senate President Godswill Akpabio expresses distress over insecurity, highlighting incidents in Kubwa and Bwari, emphasizing the vulnerability of the FCT
• Security briefing adjourned due to the absence of key officials; Senate demands comprehensive review and attendance of essential figures

Concerns over insecurity heightened as the Senate addressed the nation’s capital’s vulnerability on Wednesday. Senate President Godswill Akpabio voiced distress, emphasizing the infiltration of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), citing incidents in Kubwa and Bwari.

Akpabio’s remarks came during a Senate briefing with security agency heads, which adjourned due to the absence of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, and Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa.

Summoned last week to discuss Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, security chiefs were tasked with addressing the surge in violence and kidnappings nationwide, including within the FCT.

Despite the Senate’s readiness, the scheduled security meeting was postponed to February 13, awaiting the presence of key officials. Among those present were military chiefs and security heads, including the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services.

Akpabio stressed the necessity for a comprehensive review of the situation, insisting on the attendance of essential figures such as the NSA, Defence Minister, and Police Affairs Minister.

Highlighting affected areas like Agatu, Taraba, Oyo, and Plateau, Akpabio underscored the Senate’s concern, stating, “We represent the Nigerian people and will only act in their interest.” Akpabio reiterated the need for a complete delegation, acknowledging apologies from the NSA for bilateral engagements.

The Senate demanded the presence of various officials, including the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Minister of Finance, and the Minister of Interior, stressing the urgency of the matter.

Akpabio instructed the Senate clerk to ensure the attendance of all invited officials for the rescheduled briefing next week, affirming the Senate’s commitment to addressing the security challenges facing Abuja and the nation.