During today's plenary session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio suspended an open debate on the United States airstrikes conducted on December 25, 2025, against suspected Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist enclaves in Sokoto State.
The decision was made to protect sensitive national security information, with Akpabio ordering a closed-door briefing by relevant security agencies to address lawmakers' concerns.
The matter was raised by Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) under a Point of Order on matters of privilege, invoking the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act and the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Ningi argued that the airstrikes represented a violation of Nigeria's sovereignty and the United Nations Charter, emphasizing that only the President, as Commander-in-Chief, holds authority over such military actions, and that legislative oversight must be maintained.
He warned that the lack of transparency from the executive could set a dangerous precedent, undermining constitutional order and national integrity.
In response, Senate President Akpabio commended Senator Ningi for bringing the issue to the floor but ruled that the Senate's privileges had not been breached.
He clarified that the operation was carried out with the full knowledge, concurrence, and collaboration of Nigerian security agencies, and stressed the importance of discretion in handling security matters. "Security is not something we discuss in the open market," Akpabio stated, urging restraint to avoid compromising ongoing operations.
He assured members that a comprehensive briefing would be provided in a closed session to clarify the circumstances, scope, and implications of the airstrikes.
The airstrikes targeted ISIS elements reportedly responsible for attacks, including those against Christian communities, and have been part of broader efforts to combat insecurity in northwestern Nigeria.
The Senate's decision to defer the debate underscores the delicate balance between transparency and the need to safeguard national security amid rising threats from terrorist groups.
The closed door session is expected to involve detailed input from security chiefs, ensuring that legislative oversight is exercised without public exposure of sensitive intelligence. The Senate remains committed to addressing insecurity while upholding Nigeria's sovereignty and constitutional principles.