The House of Representatives has mandated the Ministries of Finance, Budget and National Planning to release adequate funds to security agencies to ensure smooth operations and bolster the fight against the rising wave of kidnappings across the country.
The Green Chamber also resolved to increase budgetary allocations for the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) to enable the agency establish stringent measures aimed at curbing ransom payments.
These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance moved by Rep. Abubakar Gumi (Zamfara) on the need to holistically combat the increasing spate of abductions and ransom demands nationwide.
During the debate, several lawmakers expressed deep concern over the security situation, stressing the need for adequate funding for security outfits and the NFIU to enable them perform optimally. They further suggested the immediate recruitment of forest guards as a strategic measure to secure volatile areas.
In his ruling on the motion, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen directed the relevant House committees to, without delay, interface with the agencies under their purview to develop and implement measures that will actualize the resolutions.
The House’s intervention comes on the heels of the surge in kidnappings and banditry across several parts of the country. Notable states currently identified as flashpoints include Oyo, Zamfara, Kwara, Benue, Plateau, Niger, and Kogi, among others.
