A Nation On Edge: Rising Insecurity Sparks Rare Revolt In Parliament

By IFEOMA IZUCHUKWU

NIGERIA’S deepening security crisis has reached a breaking point, igniting an unusual rebellion within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and exposing widening cracks in the country’s political and security frameworks. Amid fresh waves of kidnappings across Kwara, Kano and Niger states, an emboldened House of Representatives confronted the Tinubu administration with searing criticism, signalling a new phase of political reckoning over national security failures.

A Parliament in Open Revolt

On the floor of the House, APC lawmaker Alhassan Ado-Doguwa delivered a blistering indictment of the government’s handling of security. He described Nigeria as being in a “war against humanity,” warning that the legislature should consider shutting down in protest if the Federal Government cannot restore security.

Doguwa’s remarks—rare dissent within the ruling party—laid bare the desperation inside Parliament as banditry, mass abductions and terror attacks stretch national security forces thin. His accusations that the government’s “best is not good enough” challenged the legitimacy of ongoing efforts and captured the growing public frustration across the North, where attacks have become almost daily occurrences.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu quickly countered the proposal to shut down Parliament, arguing that democracy cannot be suspended. Speaker Tajudeen Abbas also stepped in, clarifying that all contributions will be considered before formal resolutions are adopted.

Kidnappings Surge Across North-Central and North-West

Even as lawmakers debated, violence rippled across states:

• Kwara: Police confirmed 10 residents were kidnapped in Isapa community, prompting a visit from the state’s Commissioner of Police and the launch of search-and-rescue operations. Local monarchs and vigilantes have been mobilised as fear spreads across villages.

• Kano: Eight villagers were abducted in another midnight attack on Biresawa, part of a wave of incursions in local councils bordering Katsina. Despite prior alerts to security agencies, gunmen overpowered residents and escaped with women and children.

• Kebbi: A rare reprieve came as 24 abducted schoolgirls from GGSS Maga regained freedom. President Tinubu welcomed the news but admitted the urgent need for “more boots on the ground” to curb school kidnappings.

The persistent attacks underscore a troubling pattern: the widening reach of non-state armed groups and the slow, reactive posture of overstretched security agencies.

Aerial Surveillance, Border Patrols and Public Panic

Pressed by escalating violence, President Tinubu ordered a 24-hour aerial security cordon over forest belts in Kwara, Kebbi and Niger—zones now known for hideouts of bandits and terrorist cells. The Nigerian Air Force has been directed to maintain constant surveillance and coordinate with ground troops to rescue victims and block further attacks.

In the South-West, Ondo’s Amotekun Corps activated round-the-clock border patrols and deployed operatives to boarding schools, reflecting fears that mass abductions could spread geographically. More than 30 suspects have been arrested under Operation Le Won Jade, with commanders assuring residents of heightened protections ahead of the festive season.

Meanwhile, the Kogi Police Command battled misinformation, dismissing viral social media posts warning of imminent bandit attacks in Kogi East. Authorities warned residents against panic and emphasised the importance of verifying information.

Human Rights Watch Sounds Alarm on Failing School Safety

Human Rights Watch (HRW) added a stern international voice to the growing condemnation, accusing the Nigerian government of failing to protect students in the wake of mass school kidnappings. With over 300 students and teachers abducted in Niger State alone, HRW said authorities have not implemented lessons from past tragedies nor provided adequate early-warning mechanisms.

The closure of Unity Colleges in several states, HRW noted, may shield students temporarily but risks deepening educational inequality and long-term psychological harm.

Inside the Rescue: How Security Agents Freed 38 Kwara Worshippers

Revealing the behind-the-scenes intelligence work, Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga detailed how DSS and military operatives used real-time tracking and controlled communication to compel kidnappers in Kwara to release 38 abducted church worshippers unharmed.

The government opted for a non-kinetic approach, avoiding a forceful rescue that could have endangered hostages. According to Onanuga, the kidnappers released the captives because they “knew the consequences” of resisting the government’s demand.

A Nation Searching for Answers

Across communities, schools, and state capitals, Nigerians are demanding decisive solutions as faith in existing security structures wears thin. The unfolding crisis has triggered emergency meetings, rapid deployments, and political tension at the highest levels. But as bandits tighten their grip on ungoverned spaces, and lawmakers warn of national destabilisation, one question looms larger than ever:

How long can Nigeria afford a security system that reacts more often than it prevents?

The country stands at a pivotal moment—one where political resolve, institutional reform and coordinated action will determine whether the spiral of insecurity can be halted before it reshapes the nation’s future irreversibly.