Nigerian Parliament Demands Immediate Security Surge in Sokoto State as Banditry Intensifies Near Niger Border

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to significantly strengthen security operations in Kebe and Tambuwal Local Government Areas of Sokoto State following an unrelenting surge in deadly bandit attacks that have claimed numerous lives and displaced thousands.

Dependable NG reports that the resolution was adopted during Tuesday’s plenary, following a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Hon. Abdushama Dasuki, who represents the Kebe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency. Hon. Dasuki expressed deep concern over the rising wave of violence, noting that his constituency has been subjected to constant and devastating attacks.

The lawmaker cited specific incidents in August where bandits invaded several communities, including Toku, Sengi, and Ongushi wards in Kebe Local Government Area. These attacks resulted in the tragic killing of residents, the abduction of dozens of citizens, and the large-scale rustling of livestock. Similar devastating incidents were recorded in Jabu Kagara and other areas of Tambuwal Local Government Area, leading to the mass displacement of residents.

Hon. Dasuki warned that the pervasive insecurity has compelled residents to abandon their homes and farmlands, severely disrupting education and economic activity, and worsening poverty across the region. He also highlighted a critical factor: the worsening diplomatic tension between Nigeria and Niger Republic, which he said has further exposed border communities in Sokoto State to cross-border banditry and the smuggling of illegal arms from the Sahel region.

In his plea, the federal lawmaker urged security agencies to adopt a more coordinated and intelligence-driven approach to protect the lives and property of residents in the rural and border communities. Following the adoption of the motion, the House directed the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Police, and other security agencies to immediately reinforce their operations in the affected areas.

The House further mandated its relevant committees Defence, National Security and Intelligence, and Police Affairs—to liaise with the security agencies to ensure the prompt and effective implementation of the resolution and to report back to the legislative chamber within two weeks.