…urges full enforcement of anti-kidnapping law
The Nasarawa State House of Assembly has expressed concern over the increasing wave of insecurity in the state, particularly cases of kidnapping, which lawmakers say are threatening the safety of residents.
During plenary on Tuesday, members noted that Nasarawa was gradually becoming unsafe, with the state capital, Lafia, experiencing frequent abductions that have caused fear and economic disruptions.
Hon. Solomon Yakubu Akwashiki, representing Lafia Central constituency, who raised the motion of public interest, warned that residents are living in fear. “If Lafia is not safe, where else will be safe? These kidnappers are on a rampage, causing harm unhindered. We must act before it is too late,” he said.
In the ensuing debate, Hon. Daniel Oga Ogazi of Kokona East constituency reminded the House that an Anti-Kidnapping Law had already been passed and urged security agencies to enforce it more vigorously.
The lawmakers collectively called on security agencies to intensify operations and fully implement the provisions of the law to curb the menace and restore public confidence in the state’s security.
“The moment these kidnappers are arrested, within a few weeks, they will be released. Mr Speaker, who is releasing them? The security agencies must know. There is foul play. If they cannot discharge their functions, let’s see people resigning,” Hon. Ogazi said.
On the issue of complicity raised, the Majority Leader, Hon. Suleiman Yakubu Azara and Barr. Esson Mairiga opined that residents are afraid to provide useful information to security agents, knowing fully well that after arrest, the kidnappers will be released.
In view of this, Hon. Mohammed Adamu Omadefu challenged security agencies in the state to change tactics in curbing kidnapping, but Barr Esson sought the House to investigate security heads for questioning in a closed session.
Going by the submissions raised by the State Parliamentarians, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Dr. Danladi Jatau read the resolutions of the House.
“We called on the governor to direct security agencies to beef up security across the State. Secondly, we are directing security agencies to use the law passed by this House to curb kidnapping, and thirdly, we call on residents to report suspicious movements, activities and individuals to security agents for action,” the speaker said.
