By Oluwakemi Kindness
The House of Representatives has called on its Minority Caucus to complement public criticism of Nigeria’s security challenges with concrete legislative action, stressing that lawmakers have both the responsibility and constitutional tools to help address the nation’s security concerns.
In a statement issued on Friday by House Spokesman Rep. Akintunde Rotimi Jr., the House acknowledges that the concerns expressed by the Minority Caucus reflect the anxieties of many Nigerians.
However, it emphasised that Parliament’s role extends beyond public commentary to proactive lawmaking, oversight, and policy engagement.
“The obligation to offer solutions, strengthen institutions, and support effective policy implementation is a shared one, not one divided along caucus lines,” the statement read.
The response follows recent remarks by the Minority Caucus on the deteriorating security situation in parts of the country.
According to the House, lawmakers are empowered by the Constitution to shape security outcomes through bills, motions, oversight functions, budgetary approvals, and constituency engagements.
The House maintained that responsibility for improving national security rests with both majority and minority members, noting that legislators across party lines have already sponsored security-related bills, raised urgent motions, and participated in committee engagements with security agencies.
House Leader, Rt. Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, underscored the need for unity in tackling insecurity, describing it as a national challenge that transcends political affiliations.
“Our duty as Parliament is not only to express concern but to ensure such concerns are translated into effective legislative and oversight actions that strengthen national security,” he said.
Ihonvbere added that despite differing political views, lawmakers remain bound by a common constitutional duty to serve Nigerians.
While acknowledging the persistent threats facing communities, including attacks on livelihoods, rural insecurity, and risks to vulnerable populations, the House noted that security agencies have recorded progress in dismantling criminal networks, rescuing kidnapped victims, and restoring stability in affected areas.
The lawmakers also defended the ongoing collaboration between the National Assembly, the Executive, and security agencies, saying sustained legislative support, oversight, and funding have strengthened the country’s security architecture.
The House concluded by urging continued cooperation among all stakeholders, insisting that Nigeria’s security challenges can only be overcome through collective action, stronger institutions, effective coordination, and sustained investment in the sector.
