Insecurity: Nigerians Must Tell President Tinubu the Hard Truth – Senator Dickson

Amid rising nationwide insecurity marked by banditry, kidnappings, and multiple violent attacks, Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West) says President Bola Tinubu must be given an honest assessment of the country’s worsening security situation.

Dickson stressed that Nigeria was “under attack” and urged all stakeholders, especially those close to the President, to present him with the true picture rather than politically convenient narratives.

He also cautioned that senators are not obligated to align their remarks with the Senate President’s preferences, insisting that the National Assembly exists for robust debate, not controlled commentary.

In a statement issued yesterday, Dickson explained that during the Senate’s security debate, he attempted to highlight the severity of the situation—killings, mass abductions, attacks on communities, and the murder of security personnel, including a Brigadier General. He said these were conditions “even nations at war do not experience.”

He expressed concern that the motion on the floor sought to commend the President despite the deteriorating situation.
“I believe the President needs to be told the truth,” he said, arguing that praise at such a time was “ill-timed, insensitive, and provocative.”

Dickson added that many lawmakers who supported the commendation cannot visit their constituencies due to insecurity, while some districts are effectively under the control of armed groups imposing taxes and running parallel authorities.

He emphasized that the Senate’s responsibility is to oversee the executive, support security agencies, and ensure accountability for funds allocated to fight terrorism. He noted that past administrations had released huge resources to the military, yet the results remained discouraging.

Calling for sincerity and patriotism, the lawmaker urged individuals with access to Tinubu to provide honest advice and avoid sycophancy.
“Mr President must be told that the nation is at war,” he warned.

Dickson also backed Senate resolutions to investigate the withdrawal of troops from Kebbi State and the circumstances surrounding the abduction and killing of General Uba by ISWAP.

He condoled with families of fallen soldiers and victims nationwide.

Finally, the senator accused the Senate President of repeatedly trying to silence him during debates.
“In a democracy, the majority may have their way, but the minority must have their say,” he insisted, vowing not to be intimidated.
“I will not be deterred. Democracy must thrive in Nigeria.”

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