The planned interface between the Senate and the Service Chiefs was postponed on Wednesday due to the absence of key officials, including the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, at the National Assembly.
The Senate had summoned the Service Chiefs and heads of security agencies for an interface on Wednesday, following a previous summons on Jan. 30.
Addressing the issue, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, revealed that the NSA had sent apologies for the inability of the security chiefs to attend the meeting as scheduled.
Akpabio explained that the proposed interface had been expanded to include other heads of security agencies, emphasizing the importance of their presence.
“We received reports that even security officials have lost their lives in the course of struggling and fighting to bring the situation under control,” Akpabio stated, highlighting the gravity of the security challenges faced by the country.
While expressing understanding for the absence of some officials due to bilateral discussions or other commitments, Akpabio stressed the need for a comprehensive briefing that includes the Chief of Defence Staff, the National Security Adviser, and other key ministers and officials.
However, due to the incomplete attendance of the expected officials, the Senate decided to adjourn the security briefing, as proposed by the Senate Leader, Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele, and seconded by the Minority Leader, Sen. Abba Moro.
Akpabio expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Chief of Air Staff, Inspector General of Police, and Director-General of the Department of State Services for honoring the Senate’s invitation.
“We thank you all for honoring our invitation for the very important interface on the way out of the lingering security crisis at hand,” Akpabio acknowledged, despite the setback caused by the absence of key officials.
PM News