Insecurity: ‘Let’s tell President Tinubu the truth’- Senator Seriake Dickson tackles colleagues for commending President Tinubu despite abductions

Senator Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West) has called on the Senate to be honest with President Bola Tinubu about Nigeria’s worsening security situation instead of offering praise.

During Wednesday’s plenary, Dickson warned against “sugarcoating” the crisis, saying leaders must avoid political correctness and sycophancy.

“The President needs to be told the true situation. Sugarcoating is hypocrisy and a disservice to the country,” he said.

He criticised a proposal to commend the President on security efforts, calling it insensitive and ill-timed, especially to victims of banditry, insurgency, and kidnapping.

“If things were going well, we wouldn’t be here. How will victims, grieving families, and soldiers on the frontlines feel?” he asked.

Dickson noted that many lawmakers cannot visit their constituencies because of insecurity, with some districts now controlled by terrorists who impose illegal levies.

He urged the Senate to intensify oversight of the huge funds allocated to the military over the years.

“Our duty is to support the frontline fighters through oversight, appropriation, and policy guidance,” he said.

The senator also accused the Senate President of misinterpreting his remarks and attempting to silence him.

“The presiding officer is not a boss. The minority must have their say. I will not be intimidated,” he said.

Dickson supported an inquiry into the withdrawal of military personnel from Kebbi State and the killing of Major General U.A. Uba by ISWAP, insisting that both incidents demand answers.

He expressed condolences to families affected by insecurity and urged the nation to confront the crisis with honesty and unity.