Lawmakers push for stronger National Assembly security after terror threats, thefts, and protests threaten Nigeria’s parliament and democratic stability.
Nigeria’s federal lawmakers have called for immediate and comprehensive reforms to strengthen National Assembly security, following rising threats from terrorists and protesters.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Internal Security, Hon. Garba Ibrahim Muhammad, disclosed that intelligence reports have warned of possible terror attacks targeting the National Assembly complex.
Muhammad revealed this during a public hearing on the proposed Legislative Security Directorate Bill in Abuja, noting that the initiative seeks to overhaul the current security framework within the parliament.
According to him, the situation has reached a critical stage, as both external and internal security breaches now endanger the safety of lawmakers, staff, and visitors.
He said, “We have received direct threats from terrorists who plan to bomb the National Assembly, as well as protesters who threaten to lock down the complex. This is why we must urgently strengthen National Assembly security to protect the legislature, which is the foundation of our democracy.”
Muhammad lamented that the National Assembly has suffered from repeated cases of car and motorcycle thefts, vandalism, and the use of fake identity cards by intruders. He also highlighted the growing number of unauthorized visitors who enter the complex without formal appointments or documentation.
“The National Assembly complex has become vulnerable,” he said.
“Petty traders move freely within the premises, making it look more like an open market than the nation’s highest legislative ground.”
He added that several legislators have been personally threatened by individuals posing as constituents, who gain easy access to offices without prior approval. This, he warned, poses a significant risk to legislative safety and operational efficiency.
The proposed Legislative Security Directorate Bill aims to professionalize and restructure National Assembly security operations. The bill outlines the qualifications, duties, and conditions of service for the Sergeant-at-Arms and other security personnel.
Muhammad explained that the new structure would align Nigeria’s parliamentary protection system with international best practices.
“Many advanced democracies have specialized security agencies attached to their legislatures,” he said.
“Our goal is to create a similar professional setup that guarantees efficiency, discipline, and proactive response.”
He emphasized that the new Directorate would not only secure lawmakers and staff but also ensure the protection of critical legislative assets, documents, and technology infrastructure.
While advocating tighter security, Muhammad stressed that the National Assembly must remain open and accessible to citizens. He noted that public engagement is a key pillar of democracy, and any security reform must strike a balance between accessibility and safety.
“Parliament should be a place where citizens can freely interact with their representatives,” he said.
“However, this openness should not compromise the safety of those who work here. The National Assembly security system must therefore combine transparency with vigilance.”
The Committee Chairman emphasized that effective security management requires an integrated approach involving intelligence gathering, surveillance technology, and collaboration with national security agencies.
Muhammad warned that the ongoing security threats, if not swiftly contained, could lead to severe consequences.
He cautioned that persistent insecurity might result in the suspension of plenary sessions, disruption of legislative oversight, and even delays in the passage of the annual budget.
“If these challenges are not addressed,” he said, “we risk the total breakdown of parliamentary functions. Without representation, oversight, or budgetary processes, democracy itself will be at stake.”
He added that the proposed bill is not merely a reactionary move but a proactive measure to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy. By institutionalizing security, the legislature would ensure continuity and resilience in the face of national challenges.
In his concluding remarks, Muhammad appealed to state Houses of Assembly across Nigeria to adopt similar frameworks to secure their legislative complexes. He noted that threats to the legislature are not confined to Abuja alone but extend to regional assemblies across the country.
“Security is a shared responsibility,” he said. “Every legislative body, whether national or state, must prioritize the safety of its members and facilities. The passage of the Legislative Security Directorate Bill is therefore essential for nationwide parliamentary protection.”
Muhammad also called for bipartisan support among lawmakers to ensure the speedy passage of the bill.
“This is not a political matter,” he asserted. “Protecting the National Assembly is about protecting Nigeria’s democracy, governance, and rule of law.”
He further emphasized that safeguarding the National Assembly goes beyond physical barriers—it requires a culture of vigilance and accountability. Lawmakers, security personnel, and citizens must work together to maintain a secure and functional parliamentary environment.
“With a modern and well-structured National Assembly security system,” he said, “we can guarantee the safety of legislators and the smooth operation of our democracy. It is our duty to build a parliament that is both open and protected.”
Muhammad concluded that the National Assembly stands as a symbol of Nigeria’s democratic resilience, and protecting it must remain a top national priority.
“When we protect this institution,” he said, “we protect the voice of the Nigerian people.”
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