The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration and the Nigerian Army to re-open Banex Plaza Abuja for business activities.
The House directed the Committees on National Security and Intelligence, Defence, and Police Affairs to investigate the closure of the plaza and the military’s role in the incident.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance, moved by Mr. Whingan Oluwaseun.
He called for the use of modern technology, like surveillance and closed-circuit television, to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack on army personnel in the plaza, that led to the closure.
“There is a growing concern about the excessive dependence on conventional, heavy-handed approaches in civil matters, leading to avoidable disruptions.”
“The House expresses concerns regarding the improper deployment of military personnel in civilian affairs, diverting their focus from their core responsibility of national defence.
“The House highlights the Okuama crisis in Delta State, where 17 soldiers were reportedly killed during a peacekeeping mission, resulting in substantial military retaliation and extensive damage.
“This underscores the inefficacy of current rules of engagement and emphasises the necessity for a reassessment of military intervention in civil matters,” the motion read.
Following the adoption of the motion, Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu who presided over the plenary session referred it to the House Committees on Army, Police, National Security, and Intelligence for further legislative action.
Recall that two soldiers were reportedly beaten up on Saturday, May 18, 2024, by traders at the plaza, forcing the army to shut down the place in protest against the ill-treatment of its personnel.
The Nigerian army swiftly deployed its men to guard the place which has paralysed business activities in the area for days.
