In response to the escalating security challenges plaguing the nation, the Senate took decisive action by suspending all scheduled proceedings on Tuesday’s Order Paper to convene a crucial dialogue session with top security officials and key government ministers.
Led by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele of the APC representing Ekiti Central, the motion to admit the Service Chiefs, heads of security agencies, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, was moved at 12:33 p.m. This motion garnered unanimous support from Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro of the PDP representing Benue South.
The esteemed guests, including the Service Chiefs and the National Security Adviser, were promptly ushered into the hallowed chamber at 12:37 p.m., signaling the commencement of the high-stakes closed-door session. The decision to enter into closed-door deliberations was formalized through a motion moved by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and seconded by Senator Abba Moro at 12:49 p.m.
Present in the chamber were notable figures crucial to the nation’s security apparatus, including the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawale; Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Geidam; Minister of State for Police Affairs, Imaan Ibrahim; Minister of Interior, Honorable Olubunmi Tunji Ojo; Minister of Finance, Olawale Edun; and Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.
Additionally, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; and Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Yusuf Magaji Bichi, were also present, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The Senate’s proactive engagement with these key stakeholders underscores its unwavering commitment to addressing the nation’s security challenges comprehensively and decisively. As deliberations continue behind closed doors, Nigerians remain hopeful for concrete and effective strategies to stem the tide of insecurity and safeguard the lives and properties of citizens across the country.