Senator Steve Karimi reported that at least 30 individuals have been abducted in Kogi-West Senatorial District over the past week, highlighting the alarming security situation gripping Nigeria. This distressing news comes as the community continues to grapple with the unresolved abduction of Oba James Dada Ogunyanda, the Obalohun of Okoloke, who was taken hostage on May 15 and remains unaccounted for.
During the debate on a critical motion addressing the escalating farmer-herder conflicts in Munga Lelau, Maigami, within the Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, Senator Karimi lamented the pervasive nature of insecurity in the nation. He attributed the surge in violence and kidnappings to “disgruntled elements” intent on undermining the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“We cannot allow these elements to destabilize our nation for their selfish interests,” Karimi asserted. He drew parallels to the tumultuous pre-2015 election period, warning that the current climate mirrors those tense times when threats of chaos loomed over the political landscape. “It is imperative that we collaborate with security agencies to identify and dismantle the networks supporting these terrorists,” he added.
The motion, initially proposed by Senator Isa Lau, brought to light the recent violent clashes between herders and farmers in Karim Lamido, which erupted on May 23, resulting in numerous fatalities, the destruction of 47 homes, and the displacement of approximately 200 residents.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the Senate has called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to provide urgent relief to the affected communities. Additionally, lawmakers urged security agencies to enhance surveillance and security measures along the borders of Taraba, Plateau, and Bauchi states to curb the movement of criminal elements and restore peace in the region.
As the nation grapples with these pressing security challenges, the need for decisive action and unity among government and security forces has never been more critical.
