Lawmakers have charged the Nigerian Government to intensify measures in addressing the root causes of banditry and insecurity in Enugu State.
The Houde of Representatives also mandated its Committees on Army and National Security to engage with the Army and other relevant security agencies to “ensure the immediate redeployment of troops to the area and to provide a comprehensive plan for addressing the security challenges in the South eastern region.”
The Green Chamber also condemned recent banditry attacks on farmers in Mgbuji Eha-Amufu, Isi-uzo local government area of Enugu State, as well as the wanton destruction of lives and property, in the area.
The House also called for improved intelligence gathering, community engagement, and enhanced coordination among security agencies in addressing the security challenges in the area.
The resolutions were sequel to the adoption of a Motion of urgent public importance, tittled ” Condemnation of Banditry Attacks on Farmers in Mgbuji Eha-Amufu, Enugu State, and the Recent Withdrawal of Deployed Soldiers Maintaining Peace”, moved by Professor Paul Nnamchi.
Leading the debate, Professor Paul Nnamchi, urged the Nigerian Army to redeploy soldiers to the community and other vulnerable part of the council area.
The lawmaker explained that Mgbuji Eha-Amufu and its environs, in recent years, have experienced repeated violent attacks by armed bandits and herdsmen.
He stated that the development has created an atmosphere of fear, instability, and food insecurity in the area.
Furthermore, Nnamchi stated that in response to the spate of attacks, on the area, the Army High Command deployed soldiers to the area to maintain peace and prevent further escalation.
Relief Materials
The House appealed to humanitarian agencies and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief materials and support for victims of the attack.
This followed the adoption of a motion by the member representing Enugu East/ Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency of Enugu State, Professor Paul Nnamchi, at Wednesday’s plenary.
Nnamchi, while leading debate on the motion expressed concern over recent banditry attack on farmers in Mgbuji Eha-Amufu community in Enugu State.
According to him, the attack resulted in the loss of lives, destruction of property, as well as ” displacement of residents who rely on farming as their primary source of livelihood.”
He expressed dismay at the recent withdrawal of the military personnel stationed in the area, leaving the community vulnerable to further attacks and undermining the fragile peace previously restored.
“Aware that in response to previous attacks, the former Chief of Army Staff had deployed soldiers to the region to maintain peace and prevent further escalation, which significantly reduced the frequency and intensity of such attacks.
Alarmed by the recent withdrawal of the military personnel stationed in the area, leaving the community vulnerable to further attacks and undermining the fragile peace previously restored.
“Recognise that the constitutional responsibility of the government includes safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens and ensuring that peace and security are maintained across the nation.
“Concerned that the continued insecurity in Mgbuji Eha-Amufu not only affects the local population but also poses a broader threat to national food security, as farmers are forced to abandon their lands”. Prof. Nnamchi said.
The motion was referred to the committees on Army and National Security.
Confidence Okwuchi
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