The House of Representatives has called on security agencies to deploy additional personnel to Kebbe and Tambuwal Federal Constituency in Sokoto State to address a surge in bandit attacks.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Abdussamad Dasuki, the lawmaker representing the constituency, during Tuesday’s plenary session.
Recent attacks by armed gangs in Kebbe and Tambuwal communities have caused killings, abductions, and mass displacement, disrupting economic activities and forcing hundreds of residents to flee to internally displaced persons’ camps within Sokoto and neighboring states.
Dasuki highlighted several incidents, including the August 12 attack on Fakku Ward, which left five residents dead, 28 abducted, and 37 cows stolen. Subsequent attacks on Sangi, Ungushi, and Jabo/Kagara wards resulted in more deaths, kidnappings, and displacement of villagers. He also noted the abduction of three daughters of a resident in Tambuwal town on July 16 and the kidnapping of PDP Youth Leader Abdullahi Zaki on August 25, who remains missing despite ransom payments.
“The unrelenting attacks have left families shattered, communities deserted, and children unable to attend school, while farmers have abandoned their farmlands due to fear of further violence,” Dasuki said, warning that the situation has deepened poverty and eroded social cohesion.
He further linked the insecurity to cross-border tensions with Niger Republic, saying that the movement of arms and criminal elements from the Sahel corridor has intensified the threat to local communities.
While commending security forces for their ongoing efforts, Dasuki called for a sustained intelligence-driven approach to dismantle criminal networks and prevent further humanitarian crises.
Following the motion, the House urged the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police Force, and other relevant agencies to reinforce deployment and enhance joint operations in Kebbe and Tambuwal to protect lives, property, and farmlands.
The lawmakers also directed the Federal Government to prioritize the rescue of abducted persons, investigate recurring attacks, apprehend perpetrators, and ensure swift justice. Humanitarian agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), were tasked with providing relief to displaced residents.
Additionally, the House mandated its Committees on Defence, National Security and Intelligence, Police Affairs, ECOWAS Parliament, and Foreign Affairs to liaise with security agencies and neighboring states to promote cross-border intelligence sharing and regional cooperation against insurgency, arms trafficking, and transnational banditry.
