The House of Representatives has urged President Bola Tinubu to urgently strengthen security in parts of Gombe State following deadly attacks by bandits in several communities.
The resolution was made on Wednesday after the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by the Chief Whip of the House, Bello Kumo, during plenary. Kumo, who represents Akko Federal Constituency, highlighted attacks on Garin Galadima, Pindiga, Garin Jaji, and Laro communities in Akko Local Government Area, which resulted in six deaths and the abduction of 20 residents, who remain in captivity.
“These attacks have caused widespread destruction of properties, displacement of citizens, loss of livelihoods, fear, and uncertainty within the communities,” Kumo said. He described the incidents as a stark reminder of the overwhelming threat to national security and called on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect citizens.
The House warned that the security situation could worsen if stringent measures are not taken in line with Chapter Two of the 1999 Constitution. Consequently, lawmakers asked President Tinubu to direct the Chief of Defence Staff to initiate a coordinated Joint Security Operation, providing aerial surveillance and ground support to flush out bandits and destroy their camps.
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The House also directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) to immediately provide relief materials to affected victims. Additionally, the Inspector-General of Police was mandated to deploy Mobile Police Force squadrons to Akko Local Government Area to maintain law and order.
Furthermore, the House tasked its Committees on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, Defence, Army, Air Force, Police, and Legislative Compliance to monitor the implementation of the resolutions and submit weekly reports until the security situation is stabilized.