Akpabio Calls Emergency Senate Session on Security Issues

On June 15, 2023, Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, announced the suspension of the legislative recess and summoned an emergency plenary session scheduled for June 23, 2023, at 11:00 AM in Abuja. This decision, communicated through a notice signed by Clerk Emmanuel Odo, aims to address urgent national security concerns that require immediate legislative attention.

The emergency session comes amid rising insecurity in Nigeria, with President Bola Tinubu recently emphasizing the need for stronger measures against terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. He warned that those financing terrorism must surrender or face the full weight of the law.

The National Assembly had previously adjourned its plenary sessions, with lawmakers expected to resume activities on July 7, 2023. The emergency session is expected to facilitate discussions on proposed reforms to Nigeria's security architecture, including the creation of state police and amendments to the 1999 Constitution to allow states to establish their own police forces.