House Urges Security Agencies to Rescue Abducted Kaduna Students

Adedayo Akinwale and Udora Orizu

The House of Representatives has condemned the senseless incessant killings and abductions of Nigerians by bandits, urging all security agencies in the country to take necessary measures to ensure early and safe return of the abductees.

The House also urged the federal government to as a matter of urgency increase its recruitment and training capacity for the military and increase the presence of security agents in Chikun/Kayuru federal constituency in Kaduna State.

It further prayed for the repose of the souls of all the military personnel and other victims who lost their lives in the hands of “these blood thirsty gunmen,” and condole with the bereaved families.

The resolutions were sequel to the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Hon. Yakubu Umar Barde (PDP Kaduna).

Moving the motion, Barde said on July 5 2021, bandits attacked Bethel Baptist High School in Damishi, Chikun Local Government Area, and abducted over 140 students from their hostel, out of which 28 escaped from their abductors and have reunited with their families, while two military personnel lost their lives in the process.

He recalled that on July4, bandits attacked the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Centre in Zaria, Kaduna State, and kidnapped 10 people, including children, a nursing mother, nurses and a security guard.

The lawmaker further recalled that on June 19, about 16 people were kidnapped from their homes at Unguwan Madaki in Kakau Ward, Chikun LGA of the state and shot dead by their abductors to press home their demand for ransom.

While lamenting that his constituents are overwhelmed with the incessant abductions, the lawmaker said the federal government and military personnel have failed to protect the citizens which they govern.

Barde wondered why the government cannot call on developed nations to come to its aid in tackling worsening insecurity.

He opined that if the government cannot defend the citizens, then they should legalise guns so that they can protect themselves.

He said: “The government has failed and if they say they are doing their best, their best is not good enough. This morning, the state government closed down 13 schools, what does the future hold for these children? For me, and I will say the military and the federal government are overwhelmed. Countries seek help when they are overwhelmed. Why can’t we call on developed nations to come to our aid?”