Security: Reps task Buhari to show sincerity, commitment

The House of Representatives on Thursday underscored the need for President Muhammadu Buhari to show sincerity and commitment in dealing with issues bothering on the security of lives and property of Nigerian citizens.

The resolution was passed following the adoption of a motion on the ‘Need to stop further killings in Mangu/Bokkos Communities,’ sponsored by Hon. Solomon Maren who expressed regrets over the killings of 32 people within the affected communities by suspected Fulani herdsmen.

This is coming barely 24 hours after the House demanded the immediate resignation of the Service Chiefs, or be sacked by Mr. President.

In his lead debate, Hon. Maren expressed displeasure over the deteriorating security situation his constituency of Plateau State, which has claimed several lives and property worth millions of naira destroyed.

According to him, the affected communities namely: Kulben, Kwatas, Ruboi, Marish, Murish, Lokudung, Sabon Barki, Pil, Mania and Mbiri – Ishala villages were attacked by the suspected Fulani herdsmen where 32 people were killed, 3 churches burnt down, 10 shops looted and over 200 houses burnt down with foodstuff and seedlings destroyed worth over hundreds of millions.

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“The House is aware that these attacks which accrued within two weeks were unprovoked and went on unabated without any intervention to stop it

“The House is concerned that if such continues it will push citizens to start seeking self-help which will compound the security situation in the country

“The House is disturbed that the primary purpose of government is for the security and welfare of the people. If we are not protecting and giving welfare to our people, then we have drifted from the ideals of the founding fathers, hence the need for the Government to do the needful and restore confidence of the people

“The House is worried that as 22 victims of such attacks are being buried today and several survivors in displaced camps, there is need for a beef-up of security in the entire constituency and indeed Plateau State to forestall any breakdown of law and order”.

While condemning the spate of killings of innocent citizens across the country and the plight of the internally displaced persons (IDPs), the House urged National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to provide relief materials, rebuild their destroyed homes, provide drugs and sanitation in the affected areas with immediate effect.

To this end, the House mandated all the relevant committees to monitor the situation and report back within two weeks.

Meanwhile, the Plateau Police Command has confirmed the arrest of the Fulani and community leaders from Mangu, Bokkos, Barkin Ladi and Riyom Local Government Areas and immediately ordered their transfer to Nigerian Police headquarters, Abuja for further interrogation as a result of the crisis that took place in parts of Bokkos local government area of the state.