Insecurity: Calls for Tinubu’s resignation politically motivated — Philip Agbese

An opposition member of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has faulted recent calls by the Minority Caucus of the House for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resign over the country’s security challenges, describing such demands as politically motivated and unhelpful to efforts aimed at addressing insecurity.

Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, said tackling insecurity requires collective national responsibility and stronger collaboration with security agencies rather than what he termed “mere opposition rhetoric.”

The Labour Party lawmaker, who also serves as the Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, was reacting to comments credited to the Minority Leader of the House, Fred Agbedi, who recently urged President Tinubu to either resolve the nation’s security and economic challenges or resign from office.

According to Agbese, calls for the president’s resignation at a time when security forces are intensifying operations against criminal elements across the country amount to playing politics with national security.

“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.

The lawmaker maintained that members of the opposition should channel their energies towards supporting security institutions and offering practical solutions rather than making statements capable of undermining ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability.

Agbese further alleged that the demand for Tinubu’s resignation was driven more by political calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections than genuine concern for the welfare of Nigerians.

“The call for the resignation of President Tinubu is not born out of patriotism. It appears to be part of a broader conspiracy by some political actors who are desperate to remove the President from office through every available means,” he said.

He added, “I am afraid the Leader of the Minority, who is yet to settle down to work, has jumped to a narrow conclusion that points to lawmakers being adversely influenced from outside the parliament by forces interested in President Tinubu’s job in 2027. Some of us in the opposition will not accept that.”

Agbese noted that the security challenges confronting Nigeria predate the current administration and require sustained commitment, intelligence gathering, improved funding and cooperation among all stakeholders.

He disclosed that the House of Representatives had recently invited security chiefs for an interaction on the security situation in the country, adding that the engagement would take place soon.

The Benue lawmaker commended members of the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and other security operatives for their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality.

He urged Nigerians to rally behind the military and security agencies, stressing that public confidence and support remain essential to winning the war against insecurity.

“Our armed forces are making enormous sacrifices daily. Instead of demoralising them through political attacks, we should encourage them and provide the support needed for them to succeed,” he said.

Agbese also expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the country’s security challenges, noting that the administration has continued to invest in security operations and strengthen the capacity of security agencies.

He called on political leaders across party lines to place national interest above partisan considerations and work together to confront the security threats facing the country.

According to him, lasting peace and security can only be achieved through unity, cooperation and a shared commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.