Reps raise alarm over terrorist threats to bomb National Assembly complex

The House of Representatives has raised concerns over threats by terrorists to bomb the National Assembly complex in Abuja.

Chairman of the House Committee on Internal Security, Garba Muhammad, disclosed this during a public hearing on a bill seeking to establish the Legislative Security Directorate, aimed at enhancing security and protecting lawmakers, staff, and visitors to the parliament.

According to Muhammad, the National Assembly complex has faced several security challenges, including car and motorcycle theft, vandalism, use of fake identity cards, and infiltration by unregistered visitors.

He warned that the threats, if not addressed urgently, could disrupt legislative activities and pose a serious risk to national stability.

“We have received threats from terrorists to bomb the National Assembly Complex and from protesters to lock up the National Assembly,” he said.

“Legislators are also exposed to threats from constituents and others who gain easy access to their offices without prior appointments. If proper measures are not taken, it may truncate legislative activities, destabilise democracy, and endanger our national security,” he added.

DAILY POST recalls that a similar security alert was issued on May 4, 2021, when lawmakers were warned of a planned Boko Haram attack on the complex and other key government facilities in Abuja. Following the alert, access to the complex was restricted, and security agencies were directed to strengthen protection around the premises.

Muhammad called for immediate fortification of the National Assembly to prevent possible attacks and ensure the safety of all occupants.