By Abdullahi Inuwa
Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, a federal lawmaker representing Plateau State in the House of Representatives, has voiced serious concerns about Nigeria’s deteriorating security landscape. He cautioned that if authorities continue to delay decisive action, the frustration among citizens could soon ignite widespread unrest.
Speaking during a House session, Gagdi described his reaction after viewing disturbing images from Boko Haram’s recent attack on the Giwa Barracks in Borno State. He said the brutality of the assault underscored how vulnerable the country had become.
“You can’t comprehend the weight of this matter until you see the photos from Giwa Barracks,” Gagdi said. “I am truly frightened. I question whether Nigerians can still feel secure in their own country.”
He raised questions about the transparency and effectiveness of military funding, pointing out that despite significant budget allocations for defense procurement, insurgents continue to capture weapons meant to safeguard the nation.
“We have funded the purchase of tanks and ammunition, all accounted for within our territory. Yet, Boko Haram is confiscating them,” Gagdi lamented. “It’s disheartening to see taxpayer-funded arms falling into enemy hands.”
Gagdi demanded accountability from top security officials, insisting that negligence must not go unpunished. While acknowledging the dedication of frontline personnel, he maintained that command failures must be addressed.
“It’s time we move beyond praise and demand responsibility. Oversight must translate into action. The National Assembly has spoken often enough—now it’s the turn of security agencies to respond,” he asserted.
He also condemned the Federal Government’s tendency to downplay concerns raised by state governors regarding local security challenges. According to Gagdi, governors must be recognized and supported in their roles as the chief security officers of their respective states.
“It’s unfair and dangerous to disregard warnings from governors while their citizens are being slaughtered,” he stated.
Gagdi issued a stark warning: if swift measures are not implemented, citizens may lose trust in the government and resort to self-help.
“A time may come when Nigerians no longer see a difference between us and the criminals they are fighting,” he warned. “Unless we act—decisively and beyond media statements—we in the National Assembly are also at risk, not just from insurgents, but from a disillusioned public.”
He pledged to present supporting evidence, including photographic proof, to back his claims and called on the House to strengthen oversight of security expenditures.
Gagdi concluded by urging lawmakers to rise above rhetoric and embrace the courage required to demand real change, saying, “Leadership is not about talk—it’s about bold, timely action.”
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