The House of Representatives has sounded the alarm over increasing security threats to the National Assembly, including a reported terrorist plot to bomb the complex. Chairman of the House Committee on Internal Security, Hon. Garba Ibrahim Muhammad, revealed this on Tuesday during a public hearing at the National Assembly in Abuja.
Security Concerns at the National Assembly
Muhammad disclosed that intelligence reports and recent incidents show the National Assembly has become a target for criminal and terrorist attacks. He said the daily influx of visitors, lobbyists, and demonstrators has made the complex vulnerable.
According to him, the Assembly has recorded car and motorcycle thefts, vandalism, fake identity cards, and unauthorized access by visitors. He also mentioned threats from terrorists to bomb the complex and from protesters planning to lock it down.
Impact of Insecurity on Legislative Activities
Muhammad warned that if these security threats continue unchecked, they could disrupt legislative activities completely. He stressed that the absence of proper security measures could halt representation, oversight, budget sessions, and plenary meetings.
He added that national democracy and governance could be destabilized if lawmakers cannot safely perform their duties.
The Legislative Security Directorate Bill
The lawmaker explained that the proposed Legislative Security Directorate Bill (HB 1632) aims to establish an internal security agency for the National Assembly. The directorate will handle recruitment, training, and coordination of the Sergeant-at-Arms and other security personnel.
Muhammad emphasized that this new framework will improve internal safety and align the National Assembly with global parliamentary security standards. He urged state assemblies to adopt similar systems to secure their legislative environments.
Conclusion
The growing threats to Nigeria’s National Assembly highlight the urgent need for structured security reforms. The proposed Legislative Security Directorate Bill offers a path toward protecting lawmakers, staff, and visitors while safeguarding the nation’s democratic stability.
