Former Edo State governor and senator, Adams Oshiomhole, on Wednesday openly criticized Senate leadership over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, accusing the National Assembly of failing to secure accountability despite years of massive security spending.
During plenary, Oshiomhole reportedly expressed frustration over the continued wave of kidnappings and attacks across the country, citing recent abductions of pupils and teachers in Oyo and Kebbi states as evidence that existing security strategies have not produced the desired results.
The lawmaker questioned the effectiveness of billions of naira allocated to defence and security agencies over the years, arguing that repeated Senate resolutions on insecurity had yielded little practical impact on the ground.
Oshiomhole specifically challenged the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, calling for a more robust oversight role and demanding a comprehensive audit of previous security expenditures as well as greater accountability from military and security authorities.
According to reports from the chamber, his proposal for a formal investigation into past security funding failed to gain sufficient support from fellow senators and was subsequently rejected.
Instead, the Senate adopted less confrontational measures, including renewed calls for the rescue of kidnapped victims, enhanced surveillance around schools, and stronger protection of vulnerable communities.
The exchange highlights growing concern within political circles over persistent insecurity, particularly as kidnappings, banditry and attacks on educational institutions continue to generate public outrage.
The development is also notable because both Oshiomhole and Akpabio are leading figures within the ruling All Progressives Congress, suggesting that concerns over security are increasingly being voiced from within the governing party itself.
As of the time of reporting, there had been no public response from Akpabio regarding Oshiomhole’s remarks.
African News Digest will continue to monitor developments surrounding legislative efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges and the response of relevant authorities.
