By Rukevwe odeh

The Minority Caucus in Nigeria’s House of Representatives has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to temporarily suspend all activities linked to the 2027 general elections and focus on addressing the country’s worsening security and economic challenges.

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, Minority Leader Fred Agbedi said Nigeria is facing one of its most difficult periods in recent years, marked by rising insecurity, widespread kidnappings, economic hardship, inflation, and growing public frustration. The lawmakers argued that governance and national recovery should take precedence over political calculations ahead of the next election cycle.

The caucus proposed a six-month National Security and Economic Recovery Plan that would concentrate government efforts on restoring public safety, improving economic conditions, and rebuilding citizens’ confidence in state institutions. According to the lawmakers, such a plan should include stronger intelligence gathering, enhanced support for security agencies, targeted economic interventions, and measures to reduce the cost of living.

Agbedi expressed concern over the continued wave of violent attacks across several states, noting that banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings have become persistent threats to communities nationwide. He cited the recent death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in captivity after his abduction in Katsina State as evidence of the country’s deteriorating security situation. The opposition lawmakers described the incident as a disturbing indication that even prominent citizens are no longer safe from criminal elements.

The caucus also highlighted the plight of schoolchildren and teachers reportedly being held by kidnappers in Oyo State. The lawmakers urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of all victims, stressing that prolonged captivity of students threatens the nation’s future and undermines access to education.

Beyond security concerns, the opposition legislators raised alarm over worsening economic conditions. They pointed to rising food prices, declining purchasing power, unemployment, and the hardship many families are experiencing. While acknowledging ongoing economic reforms, they argued that more immediate relief measures are needed to cushion the effects on ordinary Nigerians.

The lawmakers further criticised what they described as increasing political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 elections, insisting that government officials should focus on solving urgent national problems rather than engaging in early campaign activities. They maintained that the primary responsibility of any government remains the security and welfare of its citizens, as enshrined in the Constitution.

In addition, the caucus expressed concern over recent legal and political developments involving opposition parties, warning that actions perceived as weakening democratic competition could undermine public confidence in the electoral process. They called on relevant institutions to uphold fairness, transparency, and the rule of law as the country moves closer to another election season.

The opposition lawmakers concluded by urging the Tinubu administration to demonstrate stronger leadership in tackling insecurity, reviving the economy, and addressing the everyday concerns of Nigerians. They pledged to continue using legislative channels to hold the executive accountable and advocate policies that improve the welfare of citizens.

Political analysts believe the latest remarks reflect growing pressure on the federal government to deliver tangible results on security and economic recovery before political activities for the 2027 elections gather full momentum. As insecurity and economic challenges remain major concerns for many Nigerians, calls for decisive action are expected to intensify in the coming months.