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VENO tv: OPINION *Insecurity: National Assembly & Empty Chairs
Date: 27-11-25

By Bishop Dr. Sanya Ojo SOMH
Seasoned Journalist • Media Consultant • Leader in the Vineyard**

Nigeria is bleeding. The nation is groaning under the weight of unending attacks, mass abductions, and coordinated terror sweeping through communities across multiple states. It is against this grim backdrop that the House of Representatives convened a three-day special plenary session dedicated solely to addressing the escalating security crisis.

With over 360 members—each elected to represent a federal constituency—Nigerians expected a fully attended, robust, and patriotic conversation. But what did we see?

Empty chairs. Vacant seats. Lawmakers missing in action.

I watched closely, with deep concern and disappointment, as many seats remained unoccupied at a time when the country required all hands on deck. Haba! This is not just unfortunate—it is a tragic indictment of unseriousness on the part of those entrusted with the mandate of the people.

Speaker Abbas Tajudeen set the tone for a sober dialogue, stating that the critical moment demanded calm judgment, discipline, and a unified national response. His words were timely. But as the session progressed, it became clear that while Nigeria needed unity, commitment, and courage, some lawmakers offered none.

A Nation Under Siege

The special session was triggered by a renewed surge in violent attacks:

Kebbi State: brazen assault on communities

Niger State: mass abduction of schoolchildren

Kwara State: kidnapping of worshippers during a church service

These are not random attacks; they are coordinated and targeted acts aimed at civilians, security personnel, and vulnerable groups. The Speaker rightly observed that the spate of violence has eroded public confidence and deepened national anxiety.

Yet, in such a defining moment, many lawmakers could not even honour their seats.

A Disrespect to the Nigerian People

Every empty chair represented:

A constituency abandoned

A mandate wasted

A voice silent

A people betrayed

Some members who were nowhere to be found in this crucial debate must rethink their priorities. Their constituents should see their absence for what it is—a dereliction of duty. If you cannot stand up for your people when they are under attack, then you do not deserve to represent them.

Call for Accountability & Sanctions

I urge Speaker Abbas Tajudeen to implement firm sanctions on any member who is habitually or carelessly absent from plenary—especially during national emergency deliberations. Leadership must be disciplined, and responsibility must carry consequences. Anything less encourages mediocrity.

If Nigeria must win the war against insecurity, then the fight must begin with our lawmakers showing up, speaking up, and standing up for the people they swore to defend.

For now, the empty chairs speak loudly.
And their silence is shameful.
By: Bishop Dr. Sanya Ojo SOMH
Seasoned Journalist • Media Consultant • Leader in the Vineyard veno_mag2011@yahoo.com.+2348033340285

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