Senator Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate, has taken aim at the media, accusing them of focusing only on bad news.
He lamented that positive developments, particularly in security, are often overlooked, with only negative stories being considered newsworthy.
Speaking during a debate on an urgent motion about the banditry and killings in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State, Akpabio highlighted how security agencies successfully thwart numerous criminal activities, but these victories rarely make headlines.
“Security agencies often intercept criminals before they commit their acts, but these successes are rarely reported. Only the bad news is highlighted,” he said.
Akpabio’s remarks came in response to a motion moved by Senator Anthony Siyako Yaro (PDP, Gombe South), who raised concerns about the ongoing security crisis in Gombe.
In his comments, Akpabio emphasized the need for collective responsibility in maintaining security.
“It is true that state governments play a vital role in security. The responsibility should not fall solely on the federal government; every Nigerian must contribute to peace and harmony,” he added.
Earlier, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) had questioned the role of state governors in ensuring security, noting that they receive substantial security votes to support law enforcement.
He stressed that, according to the constitution, governors are the chief security officers of their states and must take responsibility for the safety of citizens.
In the wake of rising insecurity, the Senate has urged the federal government to fund the establishment of modern ranches nationwide, believing this would improve safety and boost the productivity of both herders and local communities.
The Senate also called for clearer laws to regulate economic activities under the ECOWAS treaty and safeguard the rights and security of Nigerians.
The Senate also called on key security officials, including the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, to investigate the recent attacks in Gombe, arrest the perpetrators, and ensure their prosecution.
Furthermore, the Senate called for the immediate formation of a joint police and military taskforce in Billiri to prevent further violence and requested that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, NEMA, and the North East Development Commission provide relief materials to those affected by the attacks.
Senator Yaro, who introduced the motion, condemned the recent attacks in Billiri, particularly the brutal killings and destruction of property by suspected herders on December 11, 2024.
He urged for swift action to prevent further bloodshed.
Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West) supported the idea of creating government-funded modern ranches, which he believes would improve safety and economic opportunities for both herders and the wider community.
He called for a comprehensive approach to the ranching plan, taking into account the challenges faced by herders who travel long distances in search of grazing land.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) reminded the Senate of a prior agreement to hold a national public hearing on security issues related to economic activities and movement.
He called for a balance of individual rights and collective security, especially within the ECOWAS framework.
