The House of Representatives has issued a strong warning to Nigeria’s security chiefs, demanding decisive action to end the growing wave of banditry, school kidnappings, and attacks on places of worship across the country.
The position of the House followed a motion moved by Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, who also serves as Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on FCT Judiciary.
Presenting the motion on the floor of the House, Hon. Osonwa condemned the increasing attacks on schools and religious centres, describing the trend as a grave threat to national security, education, and the fundamental rights of citizens.
He expressed concern that schools, once regarded as safe havens for learning, have become frequent targets of criminal gangs, leading to the abduction of students and creating widespread fear among parents and communities.
According to the lawmaker, the persistent kidnappings have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s growing number of out-of-school children, as many families are now reluctant to send their children to school due to security concerns.
Hon. Osonwa further noted that attacks on worship centres have undermined citizens’ constitutional right to freedom of religion and created an atmosphere of fear in many communities.
Lawmakers observed that insecurity has continued to devastate rural communities, forcing farmers to abandon their farmlands, crippling local businesses, and pushing many families into financial hardship due to the payment of huge ransoms to kidnappers.
The House also expressed concern that despite substantial budgetary allocations to defence and security over the years, many parts of the country continue to experience frequent attacks, kidnappings, and killings.
Following deliberations, the House resolved to urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately implement a comprehensive and aggressive security strategy aimed at dismantling bandit networks, securing vulnerable communities, and ensuring the rescue of all kidnapped victims.
The lawmakers further stated that if security chiefs fail to restore order and effectively address the security challenges within a reasonable timeframe, they should take responsibility and resign from their positions.
To ensure compliance with the resolution, the House mandated its Committees on Defence, Army, and National Security to monitor implementation and report back within two weeks for further legislative action.
The resolution underscores growing concerns within the National Assembly over the persistent insecurity facing the country and the urgent need for more effective measures to safeguard lives and property.
