Reps summon service chiefs, NSA over worsening insecurity across Nigeria

The House of Representatives has summoned the nation’s Service Chiefs and National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, over the worsening security situation across the country amid rising incidents of kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, and communal violence.

The resolution was adopted during plenary on Tuesday following a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Sulaiman Gumi, who represents the Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency of Zamfara State. Lawmakers expressed concern over the persistent attacks on communities, schools, and major highways despite significant government spending on security operations.

Members of the House said recent incidents across several states have heightened public anxiety and raised questions about the effectiveness of current security strategies. They noted that mass abductions, killings, and bandit attacks continue to occur in parts of the North-West, North-East, and North-Central regions, while kidnapping incidents have increasingly spread to southern states.

As part of its oversight responsibilities, the House also summoned the Minister of Finance to provide details on funds allocated and released for security operations. Lawmakers said they intend to scrutinize security expenditures and assess whether available resources are being effectively deployed in the fight against criminal groups.

The Service Chiefs expected to appear before the lawmakers include the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, and Chief of Air Staff. They are expected to brief the House on ongoing military operations, operational challenges, intelligence coordination, and measures being taken to address the security crisis.

The summons comes amid growing public concern over a series of recent attacks, including school abductions and mass kidnappings in different parts of the country. Security experts have warned that the expanding reach of criminal networks poses a significant threat to national stability and economic activities if not urgently addressed.

Lawmakers also called for stronger security measures, including improved intelligence gathering, increased investment in technology, enhanced coordination among security agencies, and the recruitment of additional personnel to strengthen the country’s security architecture.

The outcome of the planned engagement is expected to shape future legislative actions on security funding, oversight, and policy reforms as the federal government faces mounting pressure to curb violence and restore public confidence in the nation’s security institutions.