Reps committee: National security shouldn’t be pursued at expense of human rights

Ahmed Satomi, chairman of the house of representatives committee on national security, says national security shouldn’t be pursued at the expense of human rights.

Satomi spoke at the committee’s inaugural meeting on Wednesday in Abuja.

The lawmaker said to address the nation’s security challenges, a “holistic and inclusive” approach should be adopted.

“We must recognise that national security should not be pursued at the expense of civil liberties and human rights,” he said.

“Instead, we must strive to strike a delicate balance that preserves our core values while ensuring the safety and well-being of our people.”

The lawmaker harped on the need to deploy technology in tackling the “unique” challenges facing the country’s national security and intelligence.

“The world we live in is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with emerging technologies, global interconnectedness, and complex geopolitical dynamics redefining the very nature of security,” he said. 

“In this rapidly changing landscape, we must not only adapt but also transcend traditional approaches to safeguarding our nation.

“While the preservation of our physical security remains paramount, we must broaden our understanding of national security to encompass the multifaceted dimensions that impact our citizens’ lives.

“Today, the concept of security extends beyond borders and military might. It encompasses economic stability, cyber warfare, environmental resilience, social cohesion, and the protection of our democratic institutions.

“In this new era, we must also embrace the power of technology as a force for good. Technological advancements have revolutionized our world, but they have also introduced new vulnerabilities and threats.

“We must harness these innovations to strengthen our intelligence capabilities, enhance our cybersecurity infrastructure, and promote responsible data governance.

“By investing in research and development, fostering public-private partnerships, and engaging with the brightest minds in the field, we can stay at the forefront of technological advancements and safeguard our nation’s interests.”

The legislator said international collaboration against insecurity is required as no nation can “stand alone against global threats”.

“We must strengthen our alliances, deepen our partnerships, and engage in meaningful dialogue with other nations,” he added. 

“By fostering cooperation and sharing best practices, we can collectively address transnational challenges such as terrorism, climate change, and the proliferation of small arms and weapons.”

The lawmaker said he would promote a culture of openness, where Nigerians are informed and engaged in matters of national security.

Satomi added that he will work “tirelessly” to ensure that the nation’s intelligence agencies operate “within the bounds of the law” and that citizens’ rights are protected.