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Senators Call on President Tinubu to Declare State of Emergency in Bandit-Prone Areas
After a series of devastating banditry attacks that have plagued the country, the Nigerian Senate has issued a call for President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in areas heavily affected by terrorist activities. The Red Chamber of the National Assembly has also urged the President to reevaluate the strategies of security agencies and establish a specialized task force to delve into the implications of engaging in negotiations with bandits.
The nationwide security crisis, particularly prevalent in the North West region, has been a major cause for concern as the country witnesses a surge in banditry attacks. The attacks have resulted in countless lives lost, widespread cases of kidnapping for ransom, displacement of entire communities, and disruptions to essential socio-economic activities, particularly in states such as Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kaduna, Kebbi, Kano, and Jigawa.
Senator Nasiru Daura, representing Katsina North, brought forth a motion addressing the urgent need to reassess the security approach to combatting banditry in the Northwest region.
“I stand to move emotion on the urgent need to review the security approach in addressing banditry attacks in Katsina, Sokoto Zamfara, kaduna, Kebbi, Kano and Jigawa State in the North-West of Nigeria.
the Senate notes are that, Katsina, Sokoto Zamfara, kaduna, Kebbi, Kano and Jigawa State have been played by escalating banditry attacks resulting in lost of lives, kidnapping for ransom, displacement of communities and disruption of social economic activities.” -Senator Nasiru Sani Daura, Katsina North
The motion was supported by fellow lawmakers who emphasized the critical need for a robust legal framework to empower the security forces to effectively engage and neutralize the threat posed by bandits.
“I appeal to Mr President to use your good office to reach out to the president of this country let him order his security institutions so have a look at what the senate has recommended.” -Senator Abdullahi Yahaya, Kebbi State
“I believe that there is a need for Mr President to seek for a further legal framework that will give the Nigerian security forces the confidence to go out there and ensure that they engage this bad elements.” -Senator Aminu Tambuwal, Sokoto South
In a bid to address another pressing issue, the Senate has directed its solid minerals committee to conduct a thorough investigation into a recent tragic rockslide incident that resulted in the loss of 30 miners in Niger State. This incident has shed light on the urgent need for comprehensive and holistic action to be taken concerning the safety of individuals engaged in mining activities nationwide.
The tragic episode serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with mining practices and has further underscored the necessity for stringent regulations to safeguard workers in the sector. Lawmakers have called for the expedited passage of the Mine Ranger Bill, currently under consideration in the Senate, to ensure that adequate measures are put in place to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
The Senate, cognizant of the gravity of the situation, has voiced its support for the motion and observed a minute of silence to honor the memory of the miners who tragically lost their lives in Niger State. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin reiterated the importance of strengthening and enforcing regulations within the solid mineral sector to prevent future occurrences.
As the country grapples with the multifaceted challenges posed by banditry and unsafe mining practices, the Senate continues to push for decisive actions and legislative measures to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of Nigerian citizens. The call for a state of emergency and the initiatives undertaken by lawmakers signal a collective determination to address these pressing issues and foster a safer and more secure environment for all.
