President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has opposed calls for a public legislative probe of the military over recent security incidents across the country, arguing that such a move could undermine the morale and operational effectiveness of troops currently engaged in combating terrorism, banditry and other security threats.

The Senate President’s position was conveyed in a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, following reports attributed to a senator advocating a Senate investigation of the Armed Forces over recent security developments.

According to the statement, while acknowledging that legislative oversight remains a constitutional responsibility of the National Assembly, Akpabio maintained that the prevailing security situation requires a more collaborative approach between lawmakers and security agencies rather than a public inquiry.

“The office also notes another report quoting a distinguished senator on the need for the Senate to probe the military over recent security incidents,” the statement said.

“While legislative oversight is a constitutional responsibility of the National Assembly, Senator Akpabio’s position is that this is not the opportune moment for a public probe of the Armed Forces.”

The Senate President noted that Nigerian troops are currently engaged on multiple fronts against insurgency, terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality threatening national security and territorial stability.

He warned that subjecting the military to what he described as a public legislative inquisition at such a critical period could negatively affect the morale of personnel and distract them from ongoing operations.

Akpabio instead advocated sustained support for the military and closer engagement with security agencies through private consultations and strategic collaboration.

According to him, closed-door interactions with military authorities would better serve the objective of ensuring accountability while avoiding actions that could embolden criminal elements or compromise operational effectiveness.

“The Senate President believes strongly that support, collaboration and closed-door engagements with security agencies are more productive at this critical time,” the statement added.

It further stated that the National Assembly would continue to exercise its oversight responsibilities in a manner that strengthens national security efforts without creating unnecessary distractions.
“Oversight will be exercised responsibly, without creating distractions that embolden adversaries or divert attention from the urgent task of securing Nigeria and its people,” the statement said.

Akpabio also urged media organisations and members of the public to disregard what he described as sensational and inaccurate interpretations of his remarks, stressing the need for verification and clarification from his office before publication of reports concerning his position on national issues.

The statement comes amid renewed public concern over security challenges in parts of the country and growing calls for greater accountability from security institutions as authorities intensify efforts to tackle violent crimes and insurgent activities.