By Richard Benjamin
Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has rejected calls by some opposition lawmakers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resign over worsening security challenges in the country.
Agbese described the demands as politically motivated, arguing that insecurity is a longstanding national challenge that requires collective action rather than partisan confrontation.
The lawmaker, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, reacted after the House Minority Caucus, led by Minority Leader Frederick Agbedi, urged President Tinubu to either introduce a six month national security and economic recovery plan or step aside.
The caucus cited recent security concerns, including the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State and other incidents, as reasons for its position.
In a statement, Agbese said the country needs cooperation with security agencies at a critical moment.
“The issue of insecurity is a national challenge that requires the collective support of all Nigerians. What we need at this critical time is partnership with our armed forces and security agencies, not rhetoric designed to score political points,” he said.
He also alleged that the calls for the President’s resignation were linked to political calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Agbese praised the efforts of the Armed Forces and other security agencies, urging Nigerians to support them while calling for improved intelligence gathering, funding, and coordination.
The development reflects growing political divisions over the Tinubu administration’s handling of insecurity, with opposition figures demanding stronger action and government supporters defending ongoing security measures.
As security concerns continue across parts of Nigeria, debate over the government’s response is expected to remain a major political issue ahead of the 2027 elections.
