The House of Representatives has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt a more aggressive security strategy aimed at rooting out bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements from their hideouts across the country.
The lawmakers made the appeal amid growing concerns over the persistent wave of insecurity affecting several parts of Nigeria, particularly in the North-West, North-Central, and some southern states where incidents of banditry, kidnapping, and violent attacks have continued to threaten lives and livelihoods.
During plenary, members of the House expressed concern over the activities of armed groups responsible for abductions, killings, and attacks on communities, stressing that urgent and decisive action is needed to restore public confidence in the nation’s security architecture.
The House urged President Tinubu to direct security agencies, including the military, police, and intelligence services, to intensify coordinated operations targeted at dismantling criminal networks and clearing forests, camps, and other locations believed to be serving as safe havens for bandits and kidnappers.
Lawmakers noted that despite ongoing military operations in several troubled regions, criminal groups have continued to exploit remote and difficult terrains to launch attacks on communities, travellers, and farmers. They argued that a more proactive and intelligence-driven approach is required to eliminate the threat and prevent further loss of lives.
The legislators also emphasized the need for improved collaboration among security agencies, enhanced surveillance capabilities, and the deployment of modern technology to track and apprehend criminal elements operating across the country.
According to the House, the continued activities of bandits and kidnappers have had severe social and economic consequences, including displacement of residents, disruption of farming activities, and increased fear among citizens. Members warned that the situation could further undermine food security and economic development if left unchecked.
The lawmakers further called for strengthened security presence in vulnerable communities and along major highways, where kidnappers have increasingly targeted commuters and travellers for ransom.
The appeal comes as the Federal Government continues efforts to address the country’s security challenges through military offensives, intelligence gathering, and other strategic interventions. However, many communities affected by insecurity have repeatedly called for stronger measures to tackle the menace and ensure the safety of residents.
The House of Representatives expressed optimism that a renewed and aggressive security campaign, backed by adequate resources and effective coordination, would help dismantle criminal hideouts, restore peace to affected communities, and enhance national security.
The resolution reflects growing pressure on the Federal Government to deliver lasting solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges and protect citizens from the activities of armed criminal groups operating across various parts of the country.
