A new wave of security enforcement has swept through Nigeria’s National Assembly Complex, as access to the corridor leading to the office of Senate President Godswill Akpabio has been officially restricted. The decision, reportedly effective immediately, affects all senators, members of the House of Representatives, and their aides.
In a confidential internal memo, the Office of the Serjeant-at-Arms announced a clampdown on movement within the heart of the Senate Wing, particularly around the White House lobby and adjoining corridors. Dated October 2 and signed by retired Brigadier-General Etido E. Ekpo, the memo emphasized that the corridor is now off-limits to all lawmakers and their personal staff.
“Effective security measures are being reinforced around the Senate Chamber, gangway, and the adjoining corridor near the office of the Senate President,” the memo stated. “All aides and personal assistants are hereby restricted from accessing the designated areas.”
The directive, addressed to the Chairman of Senate Services, urges senators to relay the message to their teams, underscoring the seriousness of the new access controls. While no official reason has been provided for the sudden restriction, insiders suggest it may be linked to rising political tensions and heightened executive-legislative sensitivities.
This development comes amid a growing political realignment in the country’s power corridors.
Also Read: Edo NSCDC Commandant Dies After Collapsing at Public Event
While attending the launch of “Ten Years of Impactful Leadership of the APC Administration in Nigeria” in Owerri, Senate President Akpabio made headlines of his own. Flanked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma—who authored the commemorative book—Akpabio revealed that a number of governors from opposition parties are currently in talks to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“There are ongoing conversations,” Akpabio said. “Many leaders from across party lines see the value in aligning with President Tinubu’s vision and are ready to join hands in building a stronger nation.”
The event, which also featured the commissioning of major infrastructure projects by President Tinubu, served as a platform for showcasing APC’s growing influence ahead of the next electoral cycle.
As security tightens within the National Assembly and political lines continue to shift, insiders believe the coming months could be critical in shaping Nigeria’s legislative landscape and party dynamics.
