The House of Representatives on Monday in Abuja met with the nation’s Security Chiefs to find solution to the incessant destruction of lives and property across the country.
The lawmakers particularly expressed concern over the situation in Aba in Abia State, Abuja and other capital cities in the country.
Speaking at the meeting, the Chairman of the House Committee on Army, Shawulu Kwewum, emphasized the need to ensure safety of the citizens at all times.
According to Kwewum, it is unfortunate that Abia State, as one of the original nine oil producing states, is naturally affected by some of the challenges facing the oil-bearing states.
Kwewum said records from the Nigerian Police made available to the committee in Umuahia showed that five kidnapping incidents were recorded in January, 2016.
He, however, said the victims were eventually rescued.
Kwewum explained that a single kidnap case in any location in the country would not be acceptable and, therefore, said all hands must be on deck to ensure this menace was completely addressed.
He said: “At a town hall meeting, several groups and individuals told the committee that at least five persons are kidnapped everyday in Aba.
“Three incidents were recorded in February, 2016 and the three were rescued and released.
“Also in March 2016, four incidents were recorded; three were rescued, while one died.
“In April 2016, one incident was recorded, while two incidents were recorded in May 2016.
“Of course, this has become more urgent because kidnapping has become widespread and even the Federal Capital Territory is not a safe haven.
“This meeting has become very important because the technology developed to make life easy for Nigerians is now being used to facilitate the extortion that goes with kidnapping.”
Kwewum said due to the spate of kidnappings of innocent citizens, many businesses were folding up in Aba.
He further said the security situation had taken a new trend considering the killings of armed security operatives.
Responding on behalf of the security agencies, the acting Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, commended the committee for convening the meeting.
Idris, who was represented by a Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Force Headquarters, Joshak Habila, promised that ongoing collaboration among security agencies would rid the country of crimes and provide security.
The meeting was attended by representatives of the Department of State Services, Nigerian Police and Nigerian Army.
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