The Senate today engaged in an intense debate over Nigeria’s deepening security crisis, with lawmakers pushing for kidnapping to be legally classified as an act of terrorism carrying the death penalty. The discussion was triggered by a motion highlighting rising attacks across Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger states, including the recent abduction of schoolchildren in Kebbi.
This follows a motion by Senator Lola Ashiru calling for urgent action in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger states. Lawmakers raised concerns over recent attacks, including the abduction of schoolchildren in Kebbi, and questioned federal responses and military operations in the affected areas.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin described the security challenges as surmountable but said they require international support. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele warned that the nation risks losing stability unless decisive steps are taken and called on the Senate to examine its own security committees and internal structures.
Opposition lawmakers criticized the current government’s handling of insecurity. Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe highlighted troop withdrawals ahead of attacks in Kebbi, while Senator Seriake Dickson warned that Nigeria is losing prestige and integrity, accusing some lawmakers of managing rather than confronting the crisis.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole defended President Bola Tinubu’s efforts but demanded a probe into the troop withdrawal in Kebbi. He also raised concerns about inconsistencies in the justice system, highlighting disparities in sentencing for terrorism-related cases.
