KEY POINTS

• The Senate has directed security agencies to track and arrest bandits and terrorists displaying their activities and wealth on TikTok and other social media platforms.
• Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that bandits recently distributed over ₦100 million online through a social media giveaway.
• Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the online displays as a challenge to government authority and called for stronger cyber surveillance and swift prosecution.

The Senate has directed security agencies to intensify efforts to track and arrest bandits and terrorists who openly display their criminal activities and proceeds on social media platforms, particularly TikTok.

The resolution followed growing concerns among lawmakers over the increasing boldness of criminal groups, some of whom now publicly showcase cash and allegedly distribute money online despite being wanted by security agencies.

The upper chamber adopted the resolution during deliberations on a motion sponsored by Senator Sunday Karimi, who represents Kogi West Senatorial District.

The motion focused on the worsening security situation in Kogi West and other parts of the country, where bandit attacks and terrorist activities have continued to threaten lives and property.

During the debate, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central proposed an additional prayer calling on the Nigerian Police Force National Cybercrime Centre and other security agencies to monitor, track and apprehend individuals using social media to publicise criminal activities.

According to her, some bandits and terrorists have become increasingly brazen, using online platforms to display their wealth and influence.

Senator Claims Bandits Distributed Over ₦100 Million on Social Media

Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed concern over reports that bandits recently organised an online giveaway in which more than ₦100 million was allegedly distributed within 30 minutes through social media channels, especially TikTok.

She questioned why such individuals had not yet been identified and arrested despite operating openly on digital platforms.

The senator argued that the existence of these online footprints should make it easier for security agencies, particularly cybercrime units, to locate and prosecute those involved.

Her proposal received the backing of Senator Osita Ngwu of Enugu West and gained widespread support from lawmakers across party lines.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the actions of the criminals as a direct challenge to state authority and evidence of growing impunity.

He said the Department of State Services and other intelligence agencies should be able to track the suspects and bring them to justice.

According to Akpabio, the public display of huge sums of money and criminal exploits on social media sends a dangerous message and undermines confidence in the country’s security institutions.

He warned that such actions create the impression that criminals are operating above the law.

The Senate President stressed the need for improved intelligence gathering and closer collaboration among security agencies.

He urged relevant authorities to treat the matter as a national security emergency and ensure prompt responses to online intelligence.

Akpabio also called for transparency in the prosecution process, saying Nigerians deserve to know when criminals who openly boast about their activities are apprehended and brought to justice.

He added that the Senate would continue to monitor developments and summon relevant authorities whenever necessary to explain failures in enforcement.