House of Representatives has called for immediate and coordinated security measures in the Baruten and Kaiama Local Government Areas of Kwara State due to a resurgence of attacks by armed criminal groups associated with the Mahmuda terrorist network.
This action followed a motion of urgent public importance introduced on Tuesday by Hon. Mohammed-Omar Bio, Chairman of the House Committee on Legislative Budget and Research and representative of the Baruten/Kaiama Federal Constituency.
Hon. Bio expressed deep concern over the ongoing violent invasions that have resulted in the deaths of residents, numerous injuries, and significant property damage.
He emphasised that the escalating violence has forced many farmers to abandon their farmlands, jeopardising their livelihoods and worsening rural insecurity.
While previous arrests of suspects had temporarily reduced the attacks, Hon. Bio highlighted a troubling resurgence.
He cited a recent ambush at a military checkpoint in Nuku Community, Kaiama Local Government Area, which led to the death of a soldier and the theft of a motorcycle.
Additionally, he mentioned another incident in Karonji Community, Baruten Local Government Area, where five residents were reportedly killed and several others critically injured.
Following deliberations, the House urged the Federal Government to deploy additional security personnel to the affected areas and directed the Nigerian Armed Forces to establish a permanent operational base in Baruten to enable a swift response to any threats.
Furthermore, the House mandated the Committees on Army, Air Force, Police Affairs, and Internal Security to engage with relevant security agencies to put an end to the attacks and restore peace.
The motion was adopted unanimously.
