Terrorists have threatened to bomb the National Assembly in Abuja, raising serious concerns over safety.
Lawmakers push for stronger security after reports of rising risks, unauthorized access and possible attacks.
The House of Representatives has revealed that terrorists have issued threats to bomb the National Assembly complex in Abuja, raising fresh concerns over the safety of lawmakers and visitors within the legislative environment.
Chairman of the House Committee on Internal Security, Garba Muhammad, disclosed this during a public hearing on a bill that seeks to establish the Legislative Security Directorate. The proposed directorate aims to strengthen security operations within the parliament and provide better protection for members of the National Assembly, its staff, and anyone visiting the complex.
Garba explained that the National Assembly has continued to experience different forms of security risks. These include vandalism, vehicle and motorcycle theft, individuals with fake identity cards, and unauthorized persons gaining access to restricted areas of the building.
He noted that the situation is becoming more dangerous as threats from terrorist groups and protest groups have recently heightened.
“We have received threats from terrorists to bomb the National Assembly Complex and threats from protesters to lock up the National Assembly,” he said. He added that some constituents and strangers often walk into lawmakers’ offices without any prior clearance or appointment, exposing representatives to avoidable danger.
A similar security warning was issued on May 4, 2021, when intelligence reports revealed that Boko Haram had planned coordinated attacks on key government structures including the National Assembly and other important locations within Abuja. After that alert, lawmakers reduced their time in the complex, while security experts demanded stronger federal action to protect vital national institutions.
Garba stressed that the current security environment requires urgent action so that the work of the parliament will not be disrupted. He warned that if the legislative arm becomes unsafe or unable to perform its duties, the country would suffer serious consequences.
He stated that without proper security measures, “there will be no representation, no oversight, no annual budget, no plenary at all” which could weaken democracy and threaten national stability.
The bill under consideration is expected to create a dedicated unit responsible for surveillance, screening, and intelligence coordination within the National Assembly, ensuring that the facility remains safe for everyone playing a role in Nigeria’s democratic system.
