The Senate has dismissed reports that it is pursuing special or collective security arrangements for its members, stating that no such plan is under consideration.
Senate spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, stated in an interview with Saturday Punch that the upper legislative chamber had never discussed or contemplated seeking group protection for senators.
Adaramodu clarified that lawmakers, like other government officials, are entitled to make personal security arrangements, especially under the current national security directives.
“There will be no time when the Senate sits to seek special security provisions for its members,” he said.
According to him, President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a national security emergency already outlines the process for any official, including senators, to obtain personal protection.
Adaramodu said, “What we understand is that, following the President’s declaration of a security emergency, all security agencies, especially the police, must ensure they have enough personnel to confront the current challenges. We fully support the President on this.
“He has already made it clear that anyone who needs protection should approach the NSCDC and make a formal request.”
He further explained that the current arrangement is no different from past practices, noting that even former lawmakers individually handled their security needs without a Senate-wide resolution.
“Even in the past, when former senators needed protection, the Senate never met to make such requests on their behalf,” he stated.
Adaramodu also urged lawmakers to remain calm, assuring them that security agencies, particularly the police, are increasing manpower in light of rising threats.
“There is no reason for senators to panic. Besides, more police personnel will soon be recruited. There are ongoing plans to add about 50,000 officers to the force,” he added.
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