NASS Resumes Amid Insecurity Crisis: Key Issues on the Agenda
As the National Assembly (NASS) resumes today after a month-long recess, lawmakers face mounting pressure to address Nigeria’s escalating insecurity. Recent attacks in Benue, Plateau, and Zamfara states have reignited debates over governance, federal-state relations, and legislative oversight. Here’s a breakdown of the unfolding drama:
Benue Insecurity: Reps vs. Governor Alia
The House of Representatives and Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia are locked in a heated dispute over the surge in killings. Deputy Spokesman Philip Agbese (Rep, Benue) accused Governor Alia of abandoning the state’s anti-open grazing law, enacted in 2017 to curb farmer-herder clashes. Agbese claims the governor’s lax enforcement of the law enabled recent attacks in Ukum and Logo LGAs, which left 56 dead.
Governor Alia Fires Back
Alia’s camp dismissed Agbese’s criticism, calling it “ignorant of democratic processes.” His media aide, Solomon Iorpev, stressed that laws cannot be suspended without legislative due process. The governor insists the law remains in force and has repeatedly appealed for federal intervention to tackle banditry.
NASS Summons Benue, Zamfara Governors
The House Committee on Public Petitions summoned Governors Alia (Benue) and Dauda Lawal (Zamfara) to explain alleged constitutional breaches in their states. The committee warned it could invoke Section 11(4) of the Constitution, allowing the House to take over state assembly functions if “breakdown of law and order” persists.
- Benue Assembly’s Response: Speaker Hyacinth Dajoh confirmed receipt of the summons but deferred action pending a Tuesday plenary vote.
- Zamfara’s Defiance: Gov. Lawal’s aide labeled the summons unconstitutional, arguing only state assemblies can probe governors.
Zamfara Assembly Crisis Deepens
Nine Zamfara lawmakers, suspended for over a year, accused Gov. Lawal of using “political thugs” to intimidate them. They vowed to continue legislative duties despite alleged harassment, citing pending petitions with security agencies.
Senate Prioritizes Tax Reforms, Security
The Senate will fast-track President Tinubu’s tax reform bills to boost revenue and address fiscal loopholes. Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also pledged urgent action on insecurity, promising “mechanisms for effective security management” amid rising violence in Benue, Borno, and Plateau.
Key Senate Agendas:
1. Passage of four tax bills (Nigerian Tax Bill, Tax Administration Bill, etc.).
2. Constitution review to strengthen federalism.
3. Electoral Act amendments for credible elections.
4. Mediation in Rivers State’s political crisis.
Why This Matters
The clashes between federal and state authorities highlight Nigeria’s fragile security architecture and governance gaps. With rising public frustration over killings, the NASS resumption offers a critical window for legislative action. However, political brinkmanship risks overshadowing solutions.
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Follow our blog for real-time updates on NASS proceedings, federal-state disputes, and Nigeria’s security landscape. Share your thoughts: Should the federal government intervene in state security matters? Comment below!
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