The House of Representatives held a special session yesterday on escalating insecurity, with lawmakers warning that Nigeria is “slipping” and that parliament must take responsibility.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda said Nigerians now live and travel in fear, stressing that insecurity cannot be solved without unity. He urged the creation of a National Border Force, community policing and a closed-door session with security chiefs.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu said the crisis needs legislative, not military, solutions. He blamed weak institutions and condemned ransom negotiations, calling for laws to stop them, better police funding and a framework for drone operations. He supported decentralised policing.
House Leader Julius Ihonbvere said Nigeria recorded over 24,000 violent incidents and up to 9,500 deaths in 2024. He warned that banditry has become organised terrorism and that over 1.5 million people remain displaced. He called for stronger non-kinetic strategies and accountability.
Ado Doguwa described insecurity as a “war against humanity” and said the government’s efforts are “not good enough.” He urged the House to consider a legislative emergency.
South-South leader Victor Nwokolo reported worsening kidnappings and weak police response in Delta, blaming both criminals and locals who assist them. Kalu rejected shutting down parliament, saying the House remains the nation’s hope and must provide solutions.