Senator Ningi Questions U.S. Air Strikes, Demands Legislative Briefing

Senator Abdul Ningi of Bauchi Central has faulted the recent U.S. air strikes carried out within Nigerian territory, describing them as a breach of the country’s sovereignty and a matter that should not have proceeded without the knowledge of the National Assembly.

Raising the concern during plenary under Order 42 on matters of privilege, the opposition lawmaker insisted that the legislature, which has constitutional responsibilities over national security and foreign military involvement, was sidelined in the decision-making process.

According to Ningi, lawmakers were not informed or consulted before the air strikes were executed, a development he said undermines legislative oversight in sensitive security matters.

“This is not acceptable. If we treat this lightly, it could create a serious problem. The leadership of the National Assembly must be properly briefed by the security agencies on what truly transpired. This action amounts to a violation of Nigeria’s territorial integrity,” he said.

The senator further warned that allowing the executive arm to independently approve foreign military actions within the country could establish a dangerous precedent, potentially encouraging other international powers to conduct similar operations without legislative approval.

Responding to the concerns, Senate President Godswill Akpabio disclosed that plans had already been made to brief senators during an executive session, but the meeting could not hold as scheduled.

Akpabio explained that legislative activities were suspended in honour of the late Senator Godiya Akwashiki, who died on December 31, 2025, leading to the postponement of the closed-door briefing.

“This is a sensitive security issue and should not be debated openly. We intended to discuss it in a closed session yesterday, but due to the passing of Senator Akwashiki, that was not possible. Your concern has been duly noted, and arrangements will be made for a proper briefing,” Akpabio stated.

The U.S. air strikes, conducted on December 25, 2025, were reportedly carried out in collaboration with Nigerian authorities and targeted locations linked to the Islamic State group. The United States Africa Command confirmed that the operation resulted in the deaths of several ISIS fighters.