On Wednesday, the House of Representatives agreed to meet with President Bola Tinubu to tackle the growing insecurity in the country. During the session, a vigorous debate ensued about whether Nigeria should employ foreign mercenaries to address non-state actors causing widespread turmoil. Abdullahi Dabai, who represents Bakori/Danja Federal Constituency in Katsina State, presented the motion as a matter of urgent public importance.
Dabai noted that residents of his constituency live in constant fear due to frequent bandit attacks. He highlighted the severe psychological trauma on survivors, particularly those who have lost family members or witnessed significant destruction. The kidnappings have further intensified the distress, with families anxiously awaiting the return of their loved ones. He cited recent attacks, such as the one on May 25, 2024, in Unguwar Lamido, Guga Ward, where eight people were killed, 100 cattle and sheep were stolen, and 26 individuals were murdered at Gidan Kare near Lamido.
Dabai acknowledged the efforts of security agencies but suggested that employing foreign mercenaries could be beneficial, citing Ukraine and Russia as examples of countries that use external forces. He argued that Nigeria’s prolonged struggle with insurgency could benefit from this additional support.
However, Abbas Adigun, representing Ibadan North-East/Ibadan South-East in Oyo State, opposed the idea of hiring mercenaries. He proposed that young military officers who were retired during Buhari’s presidency be engaged instead, believing they could effectively address the security challenges. Adigun emphasized the competence and readiness of these retired officers.
Miriam Onuoha, representing Onuimo/Okigwe/Isiala Mbano Federal Constituency in Imo State, stressed the importance of rebuilding infrastructure destroyed by non-state actors. Bamidele Salam, a PDP lawmaker from Ede North/Ede South/Ejigbo Federal Constituency in Osun State, urged the government to improve access to education and address poverty, linking these issues to insecurity. He noted a correlation between higher education levels and lower insecurity. After adopting the motion, the House decided to meet with the President to discuss solutions to the insecurity and urged police authorities to allocate funds for repairing damaged security assets nationwide.
