The House of Representatives Committee on Internal Security has raised concerns over alleged threats by terrorists to bomb the National Assembly complex. The committee has therefore called for immediate fortification of the building as a proactive security measure.
Committee Chairman, Hon. Garba Muhammad, made this known on Tuesday during a public hearing on a bill seeking to establish the Legislative Security Directorate, a proposed agency aimed at enhancing security management and protecting lawmakers, staff, and visitors within the parliamentary premises.
Muhammad disclosed that the complex, which accommodates both the Senate and the House of Representatives, has been facing several security challenges, including vehicle and motorcycle theft, vandalism, fake identification cards, and infiltration by unregistered visitors.
“We have received threats from terrorists to bomb the National Assembly complex and from protesters to lock up the building. Legislators are exposed to various risks, including from constituents and other individuals who access their offices without proper authorization,” he said.
He warned that failure to implement effective security measures could disrupt legislative activities and threaten democratic stability.
“If these threats are not addressed, legislative activities could be paralyzed. Without representation, oversight, or budget sessions, the entire democratic process and national stability would be at risk,” Muhammad added.
The Kano lawmaker emphasized that safeguarding the National Assembly requires a comprehensive and coordinated security strategy, integrating modern and multi-layered protection systems.
“That is why this bill is crucial,” he said. “It aims to adopt global best practices in parliamentary security while ensuring public access to the legislature remains unhindered. Our goal is a secure yet open parliament.”
Muhammad also urged state Houses of Assembly to strengthen security within their respective complexes and called on all stakeholders to support the swift passage of the bill.
“I wish us a peaceful and productive hearing that will bring a much-needed turnaround in the National Assembly’s security architecture,” he concluded.
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