Security heightened at NASS over terror alert

There is heightened security at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Monday as security agents and the Sergeant-at-Arms Department stopped and searched every vehicle entering the premises.

There were no exceptions and the exercise led to long queues of vehicles at the entrances into the Complex.

Several visitors and others without valid identification cards were turned back from entering the Complex.

Combined teams of security forces were strategically positioned within and around the Complex.

This development follows the security advisory issued last week by the Embassies of the United State of America and the United Kingdom among others last week.

The NASS Security Management Committee on the heels of this development, at weekend announced new measures to tighten up security.

According to a memo signed by the Director, Administrative, Dr. Tahir Sani, the Committee resolved to adopt several proactive measures in the short and long terms.

The memo explained that “one of such measures is the directive to Security Agencies and the Sergeant-at-Arms Department to ensure that, effective Monday, October 31, 2022, all vehicles coming into the National Assembly premises are thoroughly searched.

” This entails that, the drivers of the vehicles shall by themselves open the booths of their cars and submit their vehicles to comprehensive checks.

“Honourable Members and Distinguished Senators are by this notice advised to use the Presidential gate, unless they are willing to submit themselves to this stop and search policy.

“While regretting the inconvenience that this policy may cause to our Visitors, Staff, Honourable Members and Distinguished Senators, it is important to state that this measure is due to the exigent demands of our security challenges.”

A security personnel at the National Assembly, who spoke in confidence, said the exercise would continue until “security improves in the country.”
(The Nation)