The House of Representatives on Wednesday criticised the Federal Government over claims that it negotiated with bandits to secure the release of 24 students abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.
The position was contained in a statement issued by a coalition of lawmakers known as “House to the Rescue,” following disclosures by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga suggesting that negotiations were part of the process that led to the students’ release.
The lawmakers said negotiating with criminal groups undermines national security and could encourage further kidnappings. Their reaction also followed a special plenary session on Tuesday, during which members raised concerns over increasing insecurity across the country.
The group, with representatives from all six geopolitical zones, warned that dialogue with armed groups responsible for abductions and attacks could legitimise their activities.
Citing examples from Colombia, Mexico, Afghanistan, Somalia and Mali, the lawmakers said countries that engaged violent non-state actors often experienced a worsening of insecurity.
They argued that such negotiations risk creating a pattern in which abductors expect government emissaries instead of law enforcement pressure.
The coalition urged the Federal Government to discontinue any talks with bandits and prioritise intelligence-led security operations to rescue victims. It also called for a clearly defined national security strategy and National Assembly oversight of any officials involved in unauthorised engagements with criminal groups.
The statement was signed by Muhammed Soba (North West), Zakari Mohammed (North Central), Olasupo Abiodun (South West), Sadiq Ibrahim (North East), Uko Nkole (South East), and Bassey Ewa (South South).
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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