The Nigerian Senate has summoned National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu and top security chiefs to appear before the chamber next week over escalating insecurity across the country.
The lawmakers’ decision follows increasing violence, particularly in Benue State, and allegations that certain international organizations may be funding terrorist groups like Boko Haram.
Among those summoned are the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed; and Director General of the Department of State Services, Adeola Ajayi.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio confirmed the meeting, initially scheduled for February 19, was postponed due to scheduling conflicts but will now hold next week. The session will address urgent security concerns and legislative measures to curb insecurity.
A major issue on the agenda is the claim that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been linked to funding Boko Haram and other terrorist factions in Nigeria. Lawmakers are expected to demand explanations from security agencies and assess Nigeria’s response to any verified foreign interference.
Meanwhile, the Senate also discussed the worsening violence in Benue State, where attacks by armed groups in Gwer-West Local Government Area have led to destruction and loss of lives.
Senator Titus Zam (APC-Benue) presented a motion highlighting the killing of four people on March 10, which triggered mass protests by frustrated youths. The demonstrators, angered by perceived government inaction, set fire to the local government secretariat, the traditional ruler’s palace, and homes of prominent figures.
Zam criticized the Benue State government for failing to enforce the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law, arguing that the lack of implementation has emboldened criminals and worsened insecurity in the region.
