The Senate has cautioned Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde against making public statements that could undermine ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and security agencies to combat terrorism, kidnapping, and other security threats across the country.
The warning followed Governor Makinde’s call for the United Nations to investigate the reported abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The governor had expressed concern over the incident and urged international attention to what he described as a serious security challenge.
Speaking during plenary, lawmakers emphasized that while state governments have a responsibility to protect residents and draw attention to security concerns, public officials should avoid remarks that could weaken public confidence in Nigeria’s security institutions or create an impression that the country is incapable of addressing its internal security challenges.
Members of the Senate noted that the Federal Government, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies have continued to intensify operations against criminal groups involved in terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping across various parts of the country.
The lawmakers maintained that security operations require cooperation among all levels of government and urged political leaders to support ongoing efforts through constructive engagement rather than statements that could be interpreted as diminishing the work of security agencies.
The Senate also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening legislative support for improved security funding, intelligence gathering, and community-based policing initiatives aimed at protecting lives and property.
While acknowledging the concerns raised over the reported abduction in Oriire Local Government Area, senators called for a thorough investigation by the appropriate Nigerian security authorities and urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
The upper legislative chamber reiterated that tackling insecurity remains a collective responsibility involving the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies, and local communities, stressing that coordinated action is essential to achieving lasting peace and restoring public confidence.
