ABUJA, Nigeria – On Friday, July 28, 2023, Senate President Godswill Akpabio voiced concern over the increasing presence of hoodlums and unauthorised individuals within the National Assembly complex, highlighting an environment of insecurity that threatens lawmakers and staff.
Akpabio’s remarks were made while hosting members of the National Assembly Service Commission, NASC, in Abuja, who paid a courtesy call to discuss challenges faced by the Commission.
As the 10th National Assembly commences its legislative activities, there have been alarming reports of disturbances, theft, and a general sense of unease caused by these intruders loitering around the Senate and House of Representatives wings.
Some lawmakers have even reported losing their phones and valuables to these hoodlums.
Ahmed Kadi Amshi, the Chairman of the NASC, presented these concerns and other issues to Akpabio, including matters related to staff allowances.
In response, Akpabio acknowledged the importance of staff welfare but emphasized that the current situation was not solely about staff comfort.
The Senate President decried the current state of the National Assembly complex, pointing to the infrastructural decay, untidiness, and the overall insecurity.
He stated, “We know that the entire complex is being renovated. We must also look after the environment. It is not all about the staff, we will like to see a cleaner environment and a secure complex. Many Senators have lost their telephones because of the influx of people into the complex.”
Akpabio’s statement is expected to prompt discussions around the security and maintenance of the complex, which symbolizes Nigeria’s democratic system.
The situation raises questions about the effectiveness of current security measures and the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of the nation’s lawmakers.
The Senate President’s emphasis on the National Assembly as a symbol of democracy underscores the importance of addressing these challenges promptly.
His comments may lead to increased security protocols and a reassessment of the complex’s ongoing renovation and maintenance efforts.
With the 10th Senate expressing its intent to make history through legislation, the safety and integrity of the environment in which they operate are crucial factors that must be prioritized.
It remains to be seen what specific measures will be taken to rectify the situation, but Akpabio’s clear concern will likely catalyze action on this pressing issue.
