Lawmakers at the House of Representatives
The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has condemned the abduction of students and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, describing the incident as a disturbing escalation of insecurity and a global embarrassment to Nigeria.
In a statement jointly signed by Minority Leader, Rep. O.K. Chinda; Minority Whip, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Ali Isa J.C.; Deputy Minority Leader, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Madaki; and Deputy Minority Whip, Rt. Hon. George Ozodinobi, the caucus expressed deep concern over what it termed “brazen actions of criminality” ravaging the country.
The lawmakers lamented the Friday, November 21 invasion of the school by suspected terrorists, during which several students and workers were abducted. They noted that confirmations from the Niger State Government and the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora further underscored the gravity of the situation.
“These brazen actions of criminality are causing global embarrassment to Nigeria and must be stopped,” the caucus declared. “Security operatives must think outside the box to restore the dignity of our nation and the confidence of the people.”
The caucus urged security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and “go the extra mile” to ensure the safe return of the abducted students and staff, while praying for a conflict-free operation. It also called on the Federal Government to embark on massive recruitment across security agencies and seek external collaborations where necessary to strengthen national safety.
Reminding the Executive of its constitutional mandate, the lawmakers stressed that the security and welfare of citizens; enshrined in Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution remain the primary purpose of government. They warned that continued failure in these areas was unacceptable.
The caucus extended heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims and prayed for the swift and safe rescue of all abductees.
