Senator Garba Maidoki, representing Kebbi South, has urged the Federal Government to take definitive action against bandits, stating that authorities are fully aware of the identities, locations, and motives of the criminal groups responsible for recent mass abductions in northern Nigeria.
Speaking during a Senate plenary session on Wednesday, Maidoki addressed a motion concerning escalating insecurity in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger states. He expressed mixed emotions regarding the recent release of 24 schoolgirls abducted in his constituency, emphasizing relief at their safe return but frustration over the persistent threat of violence.
“While I am relieved that these young women from Maga have been released unharmed, the fact remains that such incidents continue unabated,” Maidoki stated. “We possess the intelligence needed to act decisively. The government must choose: negotiate conclusively or engage in a firm, final confrontation.”
Maidoki also raised critical questions about the withdrawal of security personnel from Maga Primary School just before the attack, demanding transparency and accountability. “Nigerians deserve answers—who ordered the withdrawal of soldiers from the school, and why? Without addressing this, we risk further endangering our communities,” he emphasized.
In response to the growing crisis, the Senate has advanced efforts to reclassify kidnapping as a terrorism offence under the Terrorism (Prevention) Act. The proposed measures include stricter penalties, potentially removing the option of fines and imposing more severe consequences for perpetrators.
This development underscores the increasing legislative and public pressure to address Nigeria’s security challenges with renewed urgency and resolve.
