The House of Representatives, yesterday, tasked President Muhammadu Buhari to do all within his powers to expedite action to secure the release of the remaining 51 Nigerians kidnapped in the Abuja-Kaduna-bound train attack and all other Nigerians held hostage by bandits and terrorists across the country.
The lawmakers, who expressed grave concerns over the plight of innocent citizens, urged Federal Government to urgently set up a high-power inter-agency panel to coordinate efforts for the release of citizens in the custody of bandits and terrorists across the country as well as offer help to families of kidnapped persons, in accordance with best global practice.
The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a ‘Motion of Urgent Public Importance’, sponsored by Hon. Bamidele Salam, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere and 9 other lawmakers.
In his lead debate, Hon. Bamidele observed that Section 14(2b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government; Section 17(2b) of the 1999 Constitution states that the sanctity of the human person shall be recognised and human dignity maintained and enhanced.
“The House notes that in the last 10 years, terrorism, banditry, kidnappings and other forms of violent crimes have become a raging security epidemic in different parts of the country.
“The House is alarmed that according to the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), since 2018, there has been a rapid increase in kidnapping, with an increase from 987 victims in 2018 to 1,395 in 2019.
“The House is worried that the figure of kidnapped persons increased to 2,865 in 2020 and 5,287 in 2021″.
