The National Assembly has received bomb threats from terrorists, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Internal Security, Garba Muhammad, has revealed.
Speaking at a public hearing on a bill to establish the Legislative Security Directorate, Muhammad warned that the complex’s security challenges pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
The lawmaker disclosed that the National Assembly has been facing various security breaches, including car and motorcycle theft, vandalism, and fake identity cards. He expressed concern that if urgent measures are not taken, the threats could disrupt legislative activities, undermining the nation’s stability.
Garba emphasized the need for effective security measures to protect lawmakers, staff, and visitors. He noted that the National Assembly’s accessibility to the public, while essential for democracy, makes it vulnerable to security threats.
This recent threat follows a similar incident in May 2021, when a security alert warned of a planned Boko Haram attack on the National Assembly complex and other high-profile government locations in Abuja. The National Assembly subsequently limited members’ presence on the premises and heightened security checks.
The proposed Legislative Security Directorate aims to enhance security management and safeguard the nation’s parliament. Garba urged lawmakers to prioritize the bill’s passage, stressing that it would mark a significant step toward securing Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The lawmaker also called on state Houses of Assembly to adopt similar security measures, emphasizing the importance of collective action in protecting the nation’s legislative institutions. By fortifying security around the National Assembly and other key institutions, Nigeria can mitigate the risk of terrorist attacks and ensure the continuity of its democratic processes.
