Reps summon NSA, ministers over spate of abductions

Nigeria's House of Representatives has summoned key security and finance officials, including the National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and the Ministers of Defence and Finance, to address the alarming increase in kidnappings across the country. The House seeks to understand the financial allocations to the Ministry of Defence over the past six months and the reasons behind the perceived insufficient security outcomes.

“

The House is aware that between June 1 and 6, 2026, rampaging bandits riding on about 250 motorcycles with three riders each invaded Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency, and some parts of Sokoto villages bordering Zamfara State, killing 93 people.

This resolution was prompted by a motion of urgent public importance presented by Mr. Sulaiman Gumi, a member representing Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency in Zamfara State. Gumi detailed the dire security situation in Zamfara and other North-West states, describing how banditry has exacerbated humanitarian crises amid harsh economic conditions.

“

The House is also aware that on the night of June 2, 2026, into the early hours of June 3, 2026, seven students of the Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State, were abducted by bandits at their off-campus students’ hostel.

He cited specific incidents, including the invasion of his constituency and bordering Sokoto villages between June 1 and 6, 2026, where approximately 250 motorcycles carrying three riders each reportedly killed 93 people. The motion also highlighted the abduction of seven students from Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda, and the earlier kidnapping of two lecturers despite ransom payments. Further incidents mentioned include attacks in Zurmi and Talata Marafa Local Government Areas, resulting in deaths and abductions, and the kidnapping of a Councillor and a Director. The lawmaker also drew attention to escalating bandit attacks in Katsina, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, and Jigawa states, including the abduction of a retired Major General and his wife in Katsina.

“

We are aware of the violent attack by bandits on Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where four people were killed and several travellers abducted.