The minority caucus in the House of Representatives has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently restructure Nigeria’s security architecture, citing rising insecurity, killings, and kidnappings across the country.
The demand was made on Wednesday in Abuja during a press briefing led by the House Minority Leader, Rep. Fred Agbedi.
Agbedi described the current security situation as deeply alarming, saying that “Nigeria is bleeding” and warning that national survival must take priority over political considerations.
The caucus referenced Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, stressing that the primary responsibility of government is the protection of lives and property.
They urged the Federal Government to refocus its priorities toward strengthening national security institutions and ensuring citizens’ safety.
Agbedi said political differences should not distract from urgent national security concerns, insisting that every Nigerian life has equal value.
The minority lawmakers strongly condemned the killing of retired Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died in terrorist captivity in Katsina State.
They also expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the release of his wife, describing the situation as troubling and requiring full investigation.
The caucus extended condolences to the bereaved family and called for accountability from security agencies.
The lawmakers also reacted to recent kidnappings of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, urging authorities to launch a rapid rescue operation.
They demanded a coordinated military response within 72 hours, insisting that the safety of abducted victims must be treated as an emergency priority.
According to Agbedi, the government must improve intelligence gathering, enhance troop welfare, and strengthen operational efficiency to combat insecurity.
The caucus called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security framework, despite the existing state of emergency declared in November 2025.
They stressed the need for increased investment in intelligence operations, better funding for security agencies, and improved coordination among institutions.
They also demanded transparency in investigations surrounding major security breaches and high-profile abductions.
The lawmakers also commented on recent court rulings concerning the deregistration of political parties, expressing concern over conflicting judicial decisions.
They urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) to intervene to protect the integrity of the judiciary and restore public confidence.
The caucus further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain neutral and resist any attempt to undermine democratic processes ahead of the 2027 elections.
Agbedi reaffirmed that the minority caucus would continue to use legislative tools to hold the government accountable.
He insisted that opposition lawmakers would not be intimidated or silenced in their demand for better governance and national security reforms.
“We will not be silent. We will not be intimidated,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, stressing that the 2027 elections would ultimately be decided by the people.
