By Paul Joseph
The Nigerian Senate has proposed drastic measures to address escalating insecurity across parts of the country, including the possible suspension of political activities in several high-risk states ahead of future elections.
The call was made during plenary following a motion that highlighted renewed attacks and growing threats, particularly in northern regions.
Leading the debate, Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) warned that the worsening security situation demands urgent and decisive action.
“Mr President, we cannot continue to think that because we are in Abuja, this does not affect us,” he said, stressing the need for proactive measures.
Ningi suggested that authorities may either suspend political activities nationwide or restrict the ban to frontline states most affected by violence.
These include Borno State, Plateau State, Bauchi State, Benue State, Niger State, Sokoto State, Kebbi State, and parts of Kano State.
He expressed frustration over repeated discussions without concrete outcomes, noting that insecurity continues to worsen despite ongoing deliberations.
The debate follows renewed concerns over insurgent activities by Boko Haram in the North-East, including coordinated attacks on military formations and increasing threats to civilians.
In a separate resolution, lawmakers urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to rescue over 400 civilians reportedly abducted in Borno State since late March.
The motion, sponsored by Senator Tahir Monguno and supported by Ali Ndume and Kaka Lawan, warned that renewed attacks risk reversing gains made by the military in recent years.
Senator Ndume raised concerns about the fate of abducted victims, disclosing that insurgents have issued threats regarding their safety.
He called for urgent intervention from both the National Assembly and the Presidency.
Other lawmakers, including Diket Plang, warned that continued attacks on security personnel are fueling public fear and undermining confidence in the nation’s security architecture.
Following deliberations, the Senate condemned the attacks and observed a minute of silence for fallen soldiers.
Lawmakers also directed the Chief of Defence Staff and other service chiefs to conduct a comprehensive review of affected military formations to identify gaps in intelligence, equipment, and operational strategy.
The chamber further urged the Armed Forces to uphold international humanitarian standards and investigate reports of civilian harm during operations.
Communities were also encouraged to support security agencies with timely intelligence.
The Senate commended troops under Operation Hadin Kai for their efforts on the frontlines.
The development comes amid fresh outrage over a video showing abducted victims held by a faction of Boko Haram.
The group reportedly warned against any rescue attempt.
The victims were abducted during an attack on a military base in Ngoshe, located in Gwoza Local Government Area, where several assets were destroyed and casualties recorded.
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