By Admin
The Senate has urged the Federal Government to establish a permanent military base in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State in response to a surge in Boko Haram attacks that have claimed lives and displaced thousands in the region.
The call came during plenary on Wednesday, following a motion of urgent national importance tabled by Senator Iya Abbas, who highlighted that five deadly attacks have been recorded in Hong LGA since February 2025. The motion also drew attention to increasing insecurity in neighbouring Gombi LGA.
While lawmakers commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their ongoing efforts, they stressed that a permanent military presence in Hong is essential to protect residents and curb the insurgency’s spread.
However, the debate sparked constitutional concerns. Senator Seriake Dickson cautioned against what he viewed as legislative overreach, noting that the power to establish military bases lies solely with the executive arm of government.
Countering the objection, Senator Wasiu Eshilokun cited Section 217(2)(c) of the Constitution, clarifying that while the President holds the authority to deploy armed forces, the National Assembly is empowered to make recommendations and provide legislative backing for such actions.
“To say the National Assembly has no power would be a misinterpretation,” Eshilokun said. “We have not crossed the line.”
