‘Nigeria Is Bleeding’ — Reps Minority Caucus Asks Tinubu To Overhaul Security Architecture

Opposition lawmakers have urged President Bola Tinubu to implement sweeping security reforms, warning that worsening violence, kidnappings and killings across the country require urgent and decisive government action.

The House of Representatives Minority Caucus has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately overhaul Nigeria’s security architecture, warning that the country is facing a deepening security crisis that demands urgent intervention.

The call was made on Wednesday by the Minority Leader of the House, Fred Agbedi, during a press conference in Abuja where he lamented the rising wave of insecurity across different parts of the country.

Declaring that “Nigeria is bleeding,” Agbedi said the protection of lives and property must take precedence over political considerations, stressing that the welfare and security of citizens remain the primary responsibility of government.

According to him, Section 14(2)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution clearly states that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

The caucus condemned the killing of former Director of Defence Information, retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died while in captivity after being abducted by terrorists in Katsina State.

The lawmakers also questioned the circumstances surrounding the release of his wife, describing the incident as a disturbing reflection of the nation’s security challenges.

While extending condolences to the family of the late military officer, the caucus urged the Federal Government to develop practical and sustainable solutions to address insecurity nationwide.

The lawmakers further condemned the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, calling for an immediate and coordinated rescue operation to secure their release.

Agbedi urged security agencies to launch a special military operation within 72 hours to rescue the victims and ensure their safe return.

The caucus also demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into the abduction and death of General Abubakar, arguing that Nigerians deserve answers regarding how terrorists were able to target and kill a retired senior military officer.

Beyond security concerns, the minority lawmakers criticised the recent Federal High Court judgment that ordered the deregistration of five political parties before it was overturned by the Court of Appeal.

They called on the Chief Justice of Nigeria to address what they described as conflicting judicial decisions capable of undermining public confidence in the judiciary.

The caucus also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to remain impartial and resist any attempt to compromise Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Agbedi assured Nigerians that opposition parties would continue to hold the government accountable while advocating reforms aimed at strengthening democracy and national security.