The House of Representatives in Nigeria has established an ad hoc committee to investigate the persistent terrorist attacks in Mangu, Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom local government areas of Plateau state. The committee, led by Hon Sada Soli, can co-opt chairmen of security-related committees of the House, with one member each from the six geopolitical zones.
The decision was made after adopting a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon Ishaya Lalu. The House urged the Chief of Defence Staff to establish a civilian joint task force in Plateau state to work alongside security agencies to curb the attacks.
Hon Lalu briefed the House on the assaults in Mangu local government areas, stating that the attacks resulted in the deaths of over 50 individuals, with many others sustaining severe injuries. Additionally, more than 1,000 houses and properties valued at billions of naira were destroyed, leading to the displacement of approximately 20,000 people residing in various internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.
The lawmaker emphasized the need for immediate action to address the continuous attacks by terrorists in the affected local government area.