By Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja

A member of the opposition in the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has dismissed calls by the Minority Caucus for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resign over the country’s security challenges, describing the demand as politically motivated and counterproductive.

Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State on the platform of the Labour Party and serves as Deputy House Spokesperson, said addressing insecurity requires national collaboration and support for security agencies rather than partisan rhetoric.

He was reacting to remarks by the Minority Leader of the House, Hon. Fred Agbedi, who recently urged President Tinubu to either address the nation’s worsening security and economic situation or step down from office.

According to Agbese, calls for the President’s resignation at a time when security forces are intensifying operations against criminal elements amount to politicising a national challenge.

“Insecurity is a national issue that demands collective responsibility. What Nigeria needs at this critical moment is stronger partnership with the armed forces and security agencies, not rhetoric aimed at scoring political points,” he said.

The lawmaker maintained that opposition politicians should focus on supporting security institutions and offering constructive solutions rather than making statements capable of undermining ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability.

He also suggested that the Minority Leader’s position may have been influenced by external political interests ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“I am afraid the Minority Leader, who is yet to fully settle into his role, has rushed to conclusions that suggest some lawmakers are being influenced by forces outside the parliament with interests in President Tinubu’s office ahead of 2027. Some of us in the opposition will not be part of that,” Agbese stated.

He further argued that the call for Tinubu’s resignation was driven more by political considerations than genuine concern for Nigerians.

“The demand for the President’s resignation is not rooted in patriotism. It appears to be part of a broader agenda by certain political actors determined to remove him from office through every available means,” he said.

Agbese noted that Nigeria’s security challenges predate the current administration and require sustained investment, intelligence gathering, improved funding and cooperation among stakeholders to overcome.

He disclosed that the House of Representatives had recently invited the nation’s security chiefs for discussions on the security situation, with the engagement expected to take place soon.

The Benue lawmaker commended members of the armed forces, intelligence agencies and other security personnel for their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities.

He urged Nigerians to continue supporting the military, stressing that public confidence and cooperation remain crucial to efforts aimed at restoring security across the country.

“Our armed forces make enormous sacrifices daily. Rather than demoralising them through political attacks, we should encourage and support them to succeed,” he said.

Agbese also expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity, noting that the administration has continued to invest in security operations and strengthen the capacity of security agencies.

He called on political leaders across party lines to place national interest above partisan considerations and work together to address the security challenges confronting the nation.

According to him, lasting peace and security can only be achieved through unity, cooperation and a shared commitment to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.