“Only Bad News is Good News” – Akpabio Criticizes Media as Senate Urges Federal Government to Fund Modern Ranches

The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has criticized the media, accusing them of prioritizing negative news while ignoring the successes of security agencies in preventing criminal activities. Akpabio made the remarks during a debate on the urgent motion raised by Senator Anthony Siyako Yaro (PDP, Gombe South) concerning the ongoing banditry and killings in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State.

According to Akpabio, the media focuses on failed security efforts while overlooking the many crimes intercepted and foiled by security agencies. He stated, “The number of attempts foiled by security forces surpasses the ones that succeed, but those are rarely reported. Security agencies often intercept criminals before they commit their acts, but these successes are overlooked.” He further emphasized that state governments and all Nigerians must play their part in maintaining peace and security, as the responsibility cannot rest solely on the federal government.

Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), during the debate, questioned the role of state governors in addressing insecurity. He noted that each state receives at least N500 million monthly as security votes, arguing that governors, as designated chief security officers, must be accountable for the safety of lives and property.

Following deliberations, the Senate called on the federal government to fund the establishment of modern ranches across the country to enhance safety and economic productivity for herders and local communities. The lawmakers also resolved to create laws defining the limits of economic activities under the ECOWAS treaty to regulate movement and protect Nigerians’ safety and rights.

The Senate urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; and the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the recent attacks in Gombe, apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure their prosecution. Additionally, the Senate called for the urgent deployment of a joint police and military task force in Billiri to prevent further violence.

To address the immediate humanitarian crisis, the Senate requested the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the North East Development Commission to provide relief materials for displaced victims.

Senator Yaro, who moved the motion, condemned the December 11 attacks in Billiri, where several villages were targeted, resulting in killings, arson, and widespread displacement. Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West) supported the call for government-funded ranches, stressing their potential to promote safety and economic stability for herders and communities. He highlighted the challenges faced by herders who must travel long distances, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to ranching.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) reminded the Senate of a previous agreement to hold a national public hearing to address security challenges linked to economic activities and movement. He emphasized the importance of defining individual rights within the context of ECOWAS agreements to ensure that no one’s rights infringe on others.

The Senate further mandated its committees on Legislative Compliance, Police Affairs, and National Security and Intelligence to ensure the resolutions are implemented and to explore long-term solutions to insecurity in the region.