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Join for News Updates ✕Kidnapping: Nasarawa Lawmakers Seek Stronger Security as Agyaragu, Agunji Incidents Raise Concern
Tags: Agunji, Agyaragu, Danladi Jatau, Insecurity, Lafia kidnapping, Nasarawa State, security operations, Solomon Akwashiki
Akwashiki reports two recent abduction victims remain in captivity as the Assembly calls for intensified security operations.
The Nasarawa State House of Assembly has called for enhanced security measures following reports of kidnapping in Agyaragu and Agunji communities in Lafia, the state capital.
The concern was raised by Hon. Solomon Yakubu Akwashiki, who represents Lafia Central Constituency, during plenary on Monday.
Presenting a Matter of Public Interest, Akwashiki told the lawmakers that kidnapping incidents had become a source of serious concern to residents of his constituency.
He reported that two people were abducted in Agyaragu on Sunday, while other residents had reportedly been kidnapped in Agunji in previous days.
According to him, the two victims abducted in Agyaragu were still being held by their captors, who were demanding ransom.
The lawmaker appealed to the state government and security agencies to take urgent steps to address the situation, rescue the victims and prevent further abductions.
He said the incidents had left residents fearful and unable to enjoy peace of mind in their communities.
Speaker Calls for Wider Security Coverage
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Dr. Danladi Jatau, expressed concern over the reported incidents, noting that kidnapping in Lafia and other parts of Nasarawa had created insecurity and affected economic activities.
Jatau said the Assembly had resolved to call on Governor Abdullahi Sule to direct the police, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other relevant agencies to intensify security operations.
He also called for stronger cooperation between security agencies and traditional institutions.
According to the Speaker, chiefs and village heads should work with vigilante groups to identify suspicious movements and support efforts to prevent criminal activities.
He directed the Clerk of the Assembly to formally communicate the resolution to Governor Sule.
Lawmakers Demand Coordinated Response
The motion was supported by Hon. Esson Mairiga, Esq.; Hon. Onarigu Onah Kana; Hon. Ibrahim Abdullahi Sa’ad; Hon. Suleiman Yakubu Azara; Rt. Hon. Abel Yakubu Bala; and Hon. Larry Ven-Bawa.
The lawmakers called for a stronger security presence across Nasarawa State and urged the relevant authorities to respond more effectively to kidnapping and other criminal activities.
They acknowledged the state government’s security efforts but maintained that additional measures were needed to address the concerns raised during the debate.
They also urged the federal and state governments to invest in sophisticated security equipment and modern technology to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve the ability of security agencies to respond to threats.
The Assembly’s intervention follows concerns raised over the safety of residents in Lafia communities and the need for sustained efforts to prevent further abductions.