Senator Ningi Condemns US Military Operation in Nigeria as Sovereignty Breach
Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, has strongly criticized the recent military operation conducted by the United States in collaboration with Nigerian forces against terrorist groups in Sokoto and other northern regions. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) member described the joint operation as a clear violation of Nigeria's territorial sovereignty and a breach of the United Nations Charter.
Constitutional Concerns Raised in National Assembly
During Wednesday's plenary session on January 28, Senator Ningi utilized the motion of personal explanation to voice his concerns before legislative activities commenced. He emphasized that such military operations should not proceed without explicit approval from the National Assembly and proper coordination with local security agencies.
The senator specifically accused President Bola Tinubu of failing to brief the National Assembly both before and after the operation, arguing that this oversight undermined the constitutional responsibilities of lawmakers. In his statement, Ningi declared:
"Sometimes in December, the United States of America, via its military, took a lead into Nigeria's territory, which is a complete violation of this document (constitution), which was also a complete breach of the United Nations Charter."
Mixed Reactions from Nigerian Citizens
The senator's comments have sparked diverse reactions across Nigeria, with citizens expressing contrasting viewpoints on the sovereignty debate.
Ahmad Ololu challenged Ningi's position, stating: "Senator Ningi's claim is misleading. Cooperation with the United States does not mean Nigeria has surrendered its sovereignty or opened its territory to every global power. Security partnerships are based on mutual interests, existing agreements, and Nigeria's consent, not force. Not every security decision requires public debate by the National Assembly, as sensitive matters demand confidentiality and speed. Strategic cooperation is a tool of modern governance, not a sign of weakness or loss of independence."
Hon. Nuhu Sada expressed concerns about procedural oversight: "Ignoring proper channels today risks bigger problems tomorrow."
Another commentator identified as Masterpiece questioned the timing of Ningi's criticism: "I think this issue pertaining to the U.S. military strike on Sokoto has been well clarified by the state defence that the operation was carried out under the permission of our national authorities, as stated then. Why is Senator Abdul taking us back to an issue that has been well sorted out and well clarified?"
Bros2Kay raised broader security concerns: "So they do not know that allowing insecurity to linger for this long without doing anything significant because it doesn't affect them directly, speaks to incompetence?"
Broader Security Context and Regional Implications
The debate occurs against a backdrop of heightened security concerns in northern Nigeria, where terrorist activities have persisted for years. The discussion about foreign military involvement touches on fundamental questions about national sovereignty, international partnerships, and constitutional processes.
This controversy follows earlier reports about security developments in neighboring regions, including the discovery of a suspected Tomahawk missile in Niger State's Mashegu Local Government Area. Police spokespersons confirmed the device's discovery and ongoing investigation by security agencies, further fueling public discussion about regional security dynamics.
The conversation reflects ongoing tensions between national sovereignty concerns and the practical realities of combating transnational security threats through international cooperation.
