The House of Representatives on Wednesday called for the establishment of a Naval Base in Oloibiri Court Beach in Bayelsa State, with a view to curbing activities of Sea Pirates and Kidnappers.
The resolution was passed following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Obordor Mitema who underscored the need for prompt response to distress calls whenever the assailants attack the communities.
In his lead debate, Hon. Mitema, who solicited the House intervention, observed that Oloibiri Court Beach is a waterfront that links the Ogbia, Nembe and Brass areas of Bayelsa.
“The House also notes that Chapter 2 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as (amended) particularly section 14 (2) (b) provides thus, the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government, hence the need to establish a Naval Base at a strategic location that links Ogbia, Nembe and Brass in Bayelsa State, to curb the increasing piracy and kidnapping attacks in the area.
“The House is aware that despite the provision on security and the right to life by the constitution, there has been an increase in the rate of Kidnapping, Sea Piracy and Armed Robbery in the Ogbia Federal constituency.
“The House is also aware that the Kidnappers, Sea Pirates and Armed Robbers operate through the waterways with over 50 reported cases and 20 dead and even the few that make it alive suffer life-threatening illness due to the torture and inhumane conditions these Assailants make them suffer.
“The House is worried that the Divisional Police Station in Ogbia town has been attacked severally by these assailants. Six Policemen lost their lives in some of those attacks and some ammunition was also stolen.
“The House is also worried that on 26 June, 2023 the Divisional Police Station in Ogbia town was attacked killing Policemen on duty with some sustained degrees of injuries, their arms and ammunitions were carted away by the assailants whose firepower was superior to that of the Policemen.
“The House is concerned that people now live in fear due to insecurity, means of livelihood such as fishing and farming have stopped and people are migrating to other locations, businesses are shutting down. education systems also have been affected.
“The House is also concerned that unless this pressing issue of insecurity is tackled with tenacity the lives of my people will continue to be in grave danger,” he noted.
The lawmakers also urged various Security Agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force, and Nigerian Army, among others to ensure synergy to have an effective and efficient communication system around the areas.
To this end, the House mandated its Committee on Navy (when constituted) to ensure compliance.
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