Reps Push for New Security Unit After Bomb Threat to National Assembly

The House of Representatives has revealed that terrorists recently threatened to bomb the National Assembly Complex, leading lawmakers to propose a new security structure to protect the country’s top legislative institution.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Internal Security, Hon. Garba Ibrahim Muhammad, made this known on Tuesday during a public hearing on a bill seeking to create the Legislative Security Directorate. The new directorate will handle security operations within the National Assembly and ensure the safety of lawmakers, staff, and visitors.

Garba said the National Assembly Complex has been facing several security challenges, including vehicle theft, vandalism, entry of unregistered visitors, and the use of fake identity cards. He warned that such lapses could expose the Assembly to serious risks and affect its daily operations if not addressed quickly.

The lawmaker noted that the proposed security directorate would introduce a coordinated system similar to those used in parliaments across the world. He explained that while the National Assembly must remain open to citizens, protecting everyone within the complex must remain a top priority.

He also encouraged state assemblies across the country to establish similar frameworks to boost security and maintain order in their legislative houses.

The public hearing, which took place at the House of Representatives Conference Hall in Abuja, focused on the bill titled, “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Establishment and Functions of the Legislative Security Directorate in the National Assembly (HB 1632).”

Lawmakers believe the new directorate, if approved, will strengthen internal security and prevent future threats against the National Assembly.