By Milcah Tanimu

The House of Representatives has called upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the findings of a recent United Nations Special report concerning the security situation in certain regions of Katsina State. The report revealed the presence of 24 terrorist cells spanning about 30 forests in the North-West of Nigeria.

This call to action came following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Honorable Aliyu Abubakar.

During the debate, Honorable Abubakar highlighted the consistent association of the North-Western States, particularly Katsina State, with banditry. He noted that out of the 34 Local Government Areas in Katsina, 23 have been directly targeted by these attacks.

The House acknowledged the details provided by the UN report regarding the numerical strength and leadership of these terrorist cells, as well as the presence of encampments in specific areas of Katsina State, accommodating an estimated 1,920 terrorists.

Furthermore, the lawmakers recognized the devastating impact of banditry on lives, properties, and the socio-economic development of Northern Nigeria.

In response to this organized crime, the House urged relevant Security Agencies to utilize the intelligence provided by the UN report to combat banditry in Katsina State. They also called for stricter measures to ensure the safety of communities affected by these attacks.

Additionally, the lawmakers appealed to the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to intervene and assist victims, alleviating the ongoing humanitarian crisis in affected areas.

To ensure compliance with these resolutions, the House tasked its Committee on Emergency Disaster Preparedness with oversight responsibilities.