In response to the escalating insecurity plaguing the nation, the Senate has taken decisive action by summoning the Security Chiefs for an urgent briefing. The gravity of the situation prompted the Senate to schedule a meeting with President Bola Tinubu to address the prevailing state of insecurity across the country.
The motion, addressing the urgent national importance of national security, was initiated by the Senate leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who spoke on behalf of the 109 senators. He expressed deep concern over the alarming increase in killings, kidnappings, banditry, and other criminal activities. Specifically, Senator Bamidele highlighted recent incidents such as the tragic killings in Agata local government area of Benue State, resulting in the loss of lives, including security personnel, and significant property destruction. He also drew attention to the brutal killings of eleven residents in Logo local government area of Benue State.
The Senate leader underscored the widespread kidnappings in the Federal Capital Territory, where victims faced fatal consequences even after ransom payments. The chamber was informed of various cases across the country where substantial ransoms were paid, yet victims met untimely ends. The recent disturbing events, including the killing of two traditional rulers in Ekiti State and the abduction of primary school pupils in Ekiti, were cited as further evidence of the worsening insecurity in the country.
Additionally, Senator Bamidele noted the unfortunate bomb explosion in Bodija, Ibadan, Oyo State, resulting in the loss of at least five lives and extensive damage to residential houses, schools, hotels, and religious centers. The Senate also acknowledged the tragic killing of numerous residents in Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi communities in Plateau State.
In a solemn moment, the Senate observed a minute’s silence in honor of the deceased. Senate President emphasized that an interactive session with the security chiefs had been scheduled for the following week. He further stated that after this session, the Senate would arrange a meeting to discuss the outcomes with President Bola Tinubu, underscoring the seriousness and urgency with which the Senate is approaching the matter of national security.
