The House of Representatives has condemned the Federal Government for reportedly negotiating with bandits to secure the release of 24 students abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State.
Lawmakers described the government’s engagement with kidnappers—disclosed by President Bola Tinubu’s aide, Bayo Onanuga—as a betrayal of Nigerians that undermines national security.
The condemnation came during a special plenary session, where members voiced alarm over rising insecurity and the daily threats faced by citizens as kidnappers and bandits continue to operate with impunity.
In a joint statement signed by representatives from all six geopolitical zones, the House warned that negotiating with bandits legitimises criminality, encourages further kidnappings, and erodes public trust in security agencies.
The lawmakers demanded that the Federal Government immediately cease all negotiations with kidnappers, launch intelligence-driven rescue operations for victims, and publish a comprehensive national security strategy with clear accountability mechanisms.