Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider a directive ordering the withdrawal of police officers attached to federal lawmakers, warning that the move could expose legislators to security risks.
Tinubu ordered the immediate withdrawal of police officers guarding very important persons (VIPs) nationwide on November 23. Three days later, some lawmakers publicly expressed concern that the decision could affect their safety.
Speaking on Friday at a joint sitting of the National Assembly during the presentation of the 2026 appropriation bill, Akpabio said several members had complained that the directive could prevent them from returning home safely.
“As we direct the security agencies to withdraw policemen from critical areas, some members have asked me to inform you that they may not be able to go home today because of this change,” Akpabio said.
“We plead with you, Mr President, for a review of the decision.”
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Earlier in his address, the senate president welcomed Tinubu to the joint sitting, describing the National Assembly as the starting point of the president’s public service career. He also welcomed Vice-President Kashim Shettima and members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
Akpabio stressed that cooperation between the executive and the legislature was essential for national development, dismissing suggestions that such collaboration amounted to legislative compromise.
He said the budget process gains relevance when anchored on constitutional partnership rather than institutional rivalry.
Describing the 2026 budget as a roadmap for Nigeria’s next phase of national renewal, Akpabio acknowledged the economic and security challenges facing the country.
“Families have felt the strain of rising costs. Businesses have adjusted to a changing economic environment. Young Nigerians have asked legitimate questions about opportunity and fairness,” he said, adding that insecurity had continued to test the nation’s resolve.
He said the 2025 budget involved difficult but necessary reforms aimed at prioritising long-term national interest over short-term comfort.
Akpabio also said the 10th Senate had recorded one of the highest legislative outputs in Nigeria’s history, citing the passage of bills on security, economic reform, governance, judicial administration, electoral integrity, infrastructure and social protection.
According to him, the laws have strengthened the legal framework for tackling insecurity, improved public finance management and enhanced access to justice.
He added that the National Assembly remains committed to providing legal and budgetary support to Nigeria’s security agencies.
