Lawmakers say they will limit their presence at their chamber following a report on a possible attack by the Boko Haram terrorist group on the National Assembly and other public buildings in Abuja.
This is even as a security alert was sent to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila and other principal officers of the House.
The ‘security alert’, dated May 4, 2021, was issued by Chairman of the House Committee on Internal Security, National Assembly, Mr Usman Shiddi.
It was titled ‘Re: planned insurgent attacks on VIP locations, government facilities and assets in Abuja.’
The security alert read, “I refer to the above subject of which a copy of the intelligence report from the Force Intelligence Bureau of the Nigeria Police Force in the National Assembly Complex has been made available to my office.
“The report indicates planned insurgent attacks by some elements of Boko Haram on some VIP locations, government facilities and assets in Abuja, including the National Assembly complex.
“In view of the above intelligence, I have considered it paramount to advise that all members should, henceforth, use the presidential gate for ingress and egress.
“This is to avoid the unforeseen congestions that are sometimes encountered at the main gates, since such congestions could easily be the targets for these insurgent elements.
“Security agencies are, however, actively on top of the issue to unravel and to contain the intended menace. Accept the assurances of my highest regards, please.”
Meanwhile, the development has made the lawmakers to restrict their presence at the chamber to avoid being casualties.
A PDP lawmaker, who spoke with FirstNews, said, “It is so worrisome. That means we are in big problem in Nigeria if the National Assembly is not safe. Like my other colleagues have been saying, I don’t think it is necessary to be in that place except for core important days.”
He also expressed confidence that security agency would contain the situation.
It was also learnt that security operatives have been put on red alert over the situation.
As of Wednesday, serious checks had begun on vehicles that enter the premises of the NASS, a development that caused a traffic jam at the entrance to the complex.