Senator Ekpenyong Seeks Incorporation of Vigilantes, Probes Military Withdrawal in Kebbi School Abduction

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing the Cross River South Senatorial District, has called for urgent, decisive, and non-partisan action to address Nigeria’s worsening security situation, warning that continued delay will only deepen the nation’s vulnerabilities.

Speaking on Tuesday during the Senate debate on a motion sponsored by Senator Sadiq Umar Ashiru on the rising insecurity across the country, Ekpenyong said the time had come for all lawmakers—regardless of political affiliation or regional considerations—to unite behind concrete solutions.

According to him, the discussions on the Senate floor revealed a shared understanding among lawmakers that the nation can no longer afford excuses or half-measures in tackling the multi-layered security crisis that has continued to claim lives and disrupt livelihoods.

Vigilantes as First Responders

Ekpenyong highlighted the critical role local vigilante groups have played in various communities, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas where security agencies are often overstretched or absent.

He noted that in many parts of the country, vigilantes have consistently served as the first line of defence, providing early intelligence, responding swiftly to distress calls, and in many cases preventing attacks or limiting casualties.

“Our local vigilantes have demonstrated courage and commitment,” he said. “Their intelligence-gathering abilities and rapid response mechanisms have saved countless lives. It is time to formally integrate them into the national security framework.”

The senator argued that proper incorporation would ensure they receive training, support, and recognition, making their operations more coordinated and effective while reducing risks associated with unregulated security actors.

Kebbi School Abduction: Senator Demands Answers

Senator Ekpenyong also drew attention to the recent abduction of students from the Comprehensive Girls Secondary School in Kebbi State, an incident that has sparked nationwide outrage.

Citing allegations by the Kebbi State Governor that soldiers were withdrawn from the school just hours before the attack, Ekpenyong urged the Senate to immediately investigate the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal.

He stressed that Nigerians deserve a transparent explanation and that those responsible for any lapses must be held accountable.

“We must identify who gave that order,” he said firmly. “Such a decision, taken without adequate security alternatives, has tragic consequences. The Senate must investigate this matter and make the findings public.”

Call for Review of the Firearms Act

To complement ongoing security reforms, Ekpenyong advocated consultations with constituents on a possible review of Nigeria’s Firearms Act, emphasising the need for stricter regulation, proper training, and modernised oversight.

He noted that communities across the country are increasingly vulnerable and that a carefully designed legal framework could prevent misuse of firearms while allowing regulated, responsible defence mechanisms where necessary.

A Time for Decisive Action

Wrapping up his contributions, Senator Ekpenyong reiterated that Nigeria has reached a critical juncture and must now take bold steps to avert further deterioration.

“At this stage of our security crisis, decisive action is not optional—it is imperative,” he maintained. “The Senate must lead with courage, clarity, and a collective resolve to protect our citizens.”

His remarks drew support from several lawmakers who echoed the need for urgent reforms in intelligence gathering, community-based security systems, and accountability within the armed forces.

As insecurity continues to escalate across states, the Senate is expected to intensify deliberations on comprehensive measures to restore peace and stability in the country.