Mounting Pressure: Senate Demands Answers from Security Chiefs
The recent tragic event in Plateau State has prompted the Senate to take immediate action, resulting in the summoning of heads of security agencies. This move comes in the wake of the Christmas Eve massacre which claimed the lives of approximately 190 individuals. Among those summoned are esteemed figures such as the Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and other key officials responsible for national security.
The decision to summon the security chiefs was made following a motion introduced by Senator Diket Plant, representing Plateau Central Senatorial District. The Senate called upon the Inspector General of Police to establish a Mobile Police Barrack at Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State, and urged the Chief of Defence Staff to establish a mobile military unit in Magu LGA, a known border point frequently used by criminals to escape after committing crimes. Additionally, the Nigerian Military was called upon to deploy intelligence and aerial surveillance in the affected areas of Plateau State.
Furthermore, the Senate implored the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and National Emergency Management Agency to provide immediate relief materials to the victims of the crisis, with the aim of decongesting the IDP camps and enabling the affected individuals to return to their homes. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development was also urged to take action against illegal miners and mining activities in the region.
In addition to these measures, the Plateau State Government was tasked with strengthening the environmental mining laws and fostering dialogue between traditional rulers and religious leaders in the affected areas. The Senate also expressed its intention to send a high-powered delegation to Plateau State to extend condolences to the government and the people, as well as to visit the victims of the tragedy.
During the deliberations, Senator Adams Oshiomhole stressed the importance of the security chiefs providing a comprehensive explanation for the intelligence failure that led to the devastating attack. The Senate conveyed the anger of the Nigerian people at the failure of the security agencies to fulfil their responsibilities, and emphasized the need for a closed-door briefing to gain a thorough understanding of the situation.
The Senate solemnly acknowledged the victims of the heinous attack by observing a minute of silence in their honour. It also raised the crucial issue of holding a national security summit to address the ongoing threat of terrorist attacks in Plateau State.
In light of these developments, it is evident that the Senate is taking proactive steps to address the security challenges facing the nation. It is clear that the government is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens, and this recent action serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication to upholding national security.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is imperative for all relevant stakeholders to collaborate and work towards sustainable solutions that will safeguard the lives and livelihoods of all Nigerians. The Senate’s resolute stance sends a powerful message that security and peace are non-negotiable priorities for the nation.
