Despite the denial by the Federal Government of any terror threat in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, the National Assembly has instituted a “Stop and Search” policy.
This was made known in a memo by the Director, Administration, National Assembly Security Committee, Dr. Tahir Sani.
In the memo, legislators were told to avoid using the general entrance in order to avoid being search.
While admitting that the National Assembly Complex is particularly a vulnerable target for insurgent attacks, the memo said the frisking will commence from October 31, 2022.
It said several measures had been put in place to ensure the safety of lives and property within the vicinity of the National Assembly complex.
Sani said in the memo: “One of such measures is the directive to Security Agencies and the Sergeant-at-Arms Department to ensure that, effective Monday, October 31, 2022, all vehicles coming into the National Assembly premises are thoroughly searched.
“This entails that, the drivers of the vehicles shall by themselves open the booths of their cars and submit their vehicles to comprehensive checks.
“Honourable Members and Distinguished Senators are by this notice advised to use the Presidential gate, unless they are willing to submit themselves to this stop and search policy.
“While regretting the inconvenience that this policy may cause to our Visitors, Staff, Honourable Members and Distinguished Senators, it is important to state that this measure is due to the exigent demands of our security challenges.”
The Eagle Online recalls that several foreign missions, including those of the United States of America and United Kingdom, had during the week raised the alarm on impending terror attacks in the country, with Abuja as the major target.
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