The Nigerian Senate has emerged from a marathon 10-hour closed-door meeting with the service chiefs, passing a resounding vote of confidence on them to tackle the insecurity problem.
This Senate decision comes as a ray of hope for a nation plagued by insecurity and promises a brighter future for the country.
The closed-door meeting between the Senate and the service chiefs, which commenced at 12:50 pm and concluded a few minutes before 10pm, was attended by the service chiefs, the national security adviser, and the Ministers responsible for the nation’s security and finance.
Pundits say the significance of the meeting between the Senate and the service chiefs cannot be overstated, as it marks a turning point in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria.
At the commencement of the meeting, Senate leader Opeyemi Bamidele announced that the session would be conducted by a committee of the whole in a close session. Senate President Godswill Akpabio further emphasized that the interactive session would be held behind closed doors, with a subsequent briefing for the Nigerian people.
The primary focus of the meeting in the Senate chamber was the escalating insecurity that has been plaguing the nation.
The Senate had previously stated that the failure of Nigeria’s security apparatus would equate to a failure of the government itself. With this in mind, the Senate left no stone unturned in their quest to restore peace and security to the nation.
During the meeting, the Senate President highlighted the areas that have been severely affected by insecurity, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Agatu in Benue State, Taraba, Oyo State, and various local governments such as Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi. He stressed that even the FCT, particularly areas like Kubwa and Bwari, have not been spared from the infiltration of criminal elements.
The service chiefs in attendance included the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-General Taoreed Lagbaja; Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar; Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun; and the Director General (DG) of the Department of State Services (DSS), Yusuf Magaji Bichi. Also present were the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser (NSA) Malam Nuhu Ribadu.
The Tuesday meeting saw the participation of key figures, including the Chief of Defense Staff, Christopher Musa; National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Director General of DSS; NIA DG; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; Minister of State for Police Affairs, Imaan Suleiman Ibrahim; Minister of Finance, Wale Edun; Minister of Interior, Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; and other notable attendees.
After the conclusion of the 10-hour meeting, Senate spokesman Yemi Adaramodu addressed journalists and conveyed the Senate’s satisfaction with the outcomes of the discussions.
The Senate spokesman stated that the service chiefs had allayed their fears and provided satisfactory answers to their questions.
Adaramodu also revealed that the Senate had extended an invitation to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, to ensure the speedy trial of individuals facing legal proceedings.
During the meeting, the Senate had raised concerns about the need to apprehend criminals through the standardization of the identities of Nigerians.
Adaramodu shared that they received assurances from border patrols regarding the serious enforcement of this measure.
Additionally, the Minister of Finance assured the Senate of the expeditious release of funds to support the efforts of the service chiefs in tackling insecurity.
“The finance Minister assured that funds will be released expeditiously to Service Chiefs. We got that pledge. We even suggested inviting the Minister of Justice so that we can get speedy trials of criminals. With what we heard today, we got assurances that Nigerians will heave a sigh of relief,” Adaramodu stated, as he passed a vote of confidence on the service chiefs.
The Senate’s decision to pass a vote of confidence on the service chiefs is a testament to their impressive track record and the progress made thus far.
The recent apprehension of suspects in Bwari and the ongoing operations in Ekiti and Plateau were cited as examples of their dedication and effectiveness. However, the Senate acknowledged the need for a more coordinated and proactive approach to address the sporadic nature of the attacks.
To this end, the Senate sought to identify areas where they could contribute to the ongoing efforts.
The Minister of Finance’s assurance of speedy fund release was a significant step in providing the necessary resources to combat insecurity.
The Senate also discussed the possibility of involving the Minister of Justice to ensure a swift and fair judicial process for criminals.
As the Senate spokesman concluded his briefing, the atmosphere was one of renewed hope and determination.
The Nigerian people can now look forward to a future where they can sleep with both eyes closed, knowing that their security is being prioritized at the highest level.
The Senate’s passage of a vote of confidence on the service chiefs sends a strong message of support and encouragement to these key figures in the fight against insecurity.
It also reflects the Senate’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the Nigerian people.
In the coming weeks and months, it is expected that the collaboration between the Senate, the service chiefs, and other stakeholders will yield tangible results in the battle against insecurity.
The proactive measures discussed during the closed-door meeting, coupled with the assured release of funds, indicate a promising future for Nigeria’s security landscape.
While challenges remain, the Senate’s endorsement of the service chiefs is a significant step toward instilling confidence in the Nigerian people.
It demonstrates a united front against insecurity and a determination to bring about lasting peace and stability in the country.
As the nation eagerly awaits the implementation of the strategies discussed during the closed-door meeting, it is evident that the Senate’s decision has sparked a renewed sense of hope and optimism.
The Nigerian people can now rest assured that their government is actively working to address the security challenges and create a safer and more secure environment for all.
The Senate’s vote of confidence on the service chiefs is a testament to their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to the welfare of the Nigerian people. It is a call to action for all stakeholders to join hands and support the ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in the country.
