SDP Accuses Niger Government of Keeping Armoured Vehicles at Government House Amid Insecurity

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Niger State has accused the state government of keeping armoured vehicles at the Government House in Minna while residents continue to face security threats across several communities.

The party expressed concern over what it described as the government’s failure to adequately address worsening insecurity, questioning why security equipment meant to protect the public was allegedly being kept within the Government House premises.

The SDP argued that the presence of armoured vehicles at the seat of government raised questions about the administration’s priorities at a time when residents were demanding stronger security measures.

It maintained that the government should demonstrate greater commitment to protecting lives and property, particularly in communities affected by attacks, kidnapping and other security challenges.

The party called on the administration of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to explain the purpose of keeping the vehicles at the Government House and clarify whether they were being deployed to support security operations across the state.

The opposition party also urged the government to strengthen collaboration with security agencies and ensure that available resources were directed towards addressing threats in vulnerable communities.

Niger State has continued to grapple with security challenges, including banditry, kidnappings and attacks on rural settlements, prompting calls for more effective responses from government and security agencies.

The SDP’s allegation has added to political criticism of the state government’s handling of the security situation, with the party insisting that the safety of residents should take priority over the protection of government officials.

However, the allegation concerning the armoured vehicles remains the party’s position, pending an official response from the Niger State Government.

The party maintained that the government must be transparent about its security arrangements and demonstrate that the protection of ordinary residents remains a central responsibility of the administration.