Akpabio: Probing Nigerian Military Will Undermine Troops’ Morale, Operational Effectiveness

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has clarified the Senate's stance on probing military spending, asserting that such an inquiry at a time when Nigerian troops are engaged in numerous fronts against terrorism and banditry would undermine their morale and operational effectiveness. Akpabio stated that public legislative inquisition is not appropriate given the critical security challenges facing the nation.

This explanation follows the Senate's rejection of a motion, sponsored by Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, that sought an investigation into military spending amid rising insecurity. During the debate, Senator Adams Oshiomhole had called for a comprehensive audit, arguing for greater accountability in the security sector, a view echoed by Senator Sani Musa who raised concerns about potential fund diversion. Despite the Deputy Senate President acknowledging the validity of scrutiny, the proposal was rejected on procedural grounds.

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

Akpabio, while recognizing legislative oversight as a constitutional duty, stressed that supporting and collaborating with security agencies through closed-door engagements is more beneficial currently. He emphasized that oversight would be conducted responsibly, avoiding distractions that could embolden adversaries or divert focus from the essential task of securing the nation.

In a separate matter, Akpabio also addressed reports claiming he promised senatorial tickets to incumbent senators who lost their party primaries. He categorically denied these reports, describing them as misleading and a gross misrepresentation of his position, urging the public to disregard them entirely.

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We must categorically assert that this report does not reflect the position of the President