The House of Representatives has strongly criticised the Federal Government for reportedly negotiating with bandits to secure the release of 24 students abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.
The condemnation came in a statement by a coalition of lawmakers known as “House to the Rescue,” following remarks by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga that negotiations were part of the process leading to the students’ release.
The coalition warned that engaging criminal groups undermines national security and could set a dangerous precedent, encouraging more kidnappings. Their response followed a special plenary session on Tuesday, where members raised concerns over the country’s rising insecurity.
Representatives from all six geopolitical zones said dialogue with armed groups could legitimise their activities. Citing experiences from Colombia, Mexico, Afghanistan, Somalia, and Mali, they noted that countries negotiating with violent non-state actors often see worsening insecurity.
“Such negotiations risk creating a pattern where abductors expect government emissaries rather than facing law enforcement pressure,” the statement said.
The coalition called on the Federal Government to halt any talks with bandits, prioritise intelligence-led security operations, and implement a clearly defined national security strategy. They also urged the National Assembly to oversee officials involved in unauthorised engagements with criminal groups.
The statement was signed by Muhammed Soba (North West), Zakari Mohammed (North Central), Olasupo Abiodun (South West), Sadiq Ibrahim (North East), Uko Nkole (South East), and Bassey Ewa (South South).
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