by Lovely Eseoghene Onohwakpor
Nation in Turmoil: Lawmakers Clash With Tinubu Over Secret Bandit Talks
Nigeria has entered a heightened state of alert as President Tinubu declared a nationwide security emergency on Wednesday, ordering an immediate surge in military, police and intelligence recruitment following a devastating week of mass abductions across several states.
The emergency declaration comes amid an unprecedented backlash from federal lawmakers, who accused the government of secretly negotiating with bandits responsible for the kidnappings in Kebbi, Niger, Kwara and other states. Lawmakers demanded the suspension of all negotiations and called for an investigation into the withdrawal of troops from a Kebbi school hours before 24 students were abducted.
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The security crisis escalated with the kidnapping of over 300 pupils and 12 teachers in Niger State and the killing of two worshippers during a church attack in Kwara. Dozens of schools across multiple states have now been shut down, while the Federal Government has also closed 41 Federal Unity Colleges over rising threats.
While the Presidency insists no ransom was paid and that negotiations were aimed at protecting hostages, senators and representatives rejected the explanation, warning that the approach is emboldening criminals and shaking public confidence. Several lawmakers described Nigeria as “under attack,” citing intelligence lapses and internal sabotage.
A coalition in the House of Representatives condemned the negotiations, pointing to global examples where dialogue with criminal groups worsened violence. They demanded a coordinated national rescue mission, a published security strategy, and investigations into officials responsible for unauthorised contacts with kidnappers.
Amid mounting criticism, the President authorised the recruitment of an additional 20,000 police officers — raising the total to 50,000 — and directed the military and state security services to enlist and deploy more personnel immediately. Youth service camps will temporarily serve as police training centres, while forest guards are being deployed to flush out terrorists hiding in remote areas.
Tinubu urged citizens to stay vigilant and called on the National Assembly to begin legislative work on enabling state police. He also advised states to avoid siting boarding schools in isolated areas and encouraged religious centres in high-risk zones to seek security protection.
More updates to follow as the situation develops.
