Security Challenges In The North Remain A Top Priority, Abbas Warns

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has decried the security situation in the Northern region of Nigeria.

Tajudeen Abbas regretted that attacks by bandits and terrorists have affected residents of different communities in Nigeria, particularly the North.

The Speaker of the House of Reps stated this during plenary on Wednesday, in his welcome address to lawmakers after a long recess.

Abbas, however, praised the gallantry of Nigeria security forces in combatting the activities of insurgents and bandits.

“Security challenges remain a significant concern, particularly in the North. However, substantial progress has been made in combating insurgency, with military operations successfully neutralizing over 150 terrorists and major bandit kingpins, according to recent reports from the Nigerian Armed Forces.

“We cannot ignore the devastating security incidents that have afflicted various communities in recent months. From the Boko Haram attacks in Gamborou-Ngala, Borno State, to the tragic massacre of innocent people in Ndun village, Tangur District in Plateau State, and the heart-wrenching killings in Maigora, Katsina State.

“Others include the violence in One-Man Village, Nasarawa State, the attacks in Sabon Tasha, Kaduna State, Guma in Benue State, the brutal killing of the District Head of Gobir by kidnappers, the abduction of healthcare workers and patients in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, and the multiple raids in Anka and Shinkafi in Zamfara.

“Our heart goes out to the families of the victims and to the communities who have endured these unspeakable losses. Let us observe a minute of silence in honour of the memory of those who have lost their lives and to renew our commitment to preventing such tragedies in the future,” Abbas said.

The Speaker also congratulated the Governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor-elect, Dennis Idahosa, on their victory in last Saturday’s Edo governorship election.

“We also appreciate the security personnel who ensured peace throughout the process. Most importantly, we congratulate the All-Progressives Congress (APC) and the successful candidates, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, the Governor-Elect, and our own Hon. Dennis Idahosa, the Deputy Governor-Elect, on their victory.

“It is noteworthy that both candidates are Members of the National Assembly. We wish them success in their efforts to lead Edo State toward progress and prosperity,” Abbas added.