Reps Slam FG for ‘Negotiating with Bandits,’ Warn Talks Could Fuel More Kidnappings

|By Adejumo Adekunle

The House of Representatives on Wednesday faulted the Federal Government over claims that it entered into negotiations with bandits to secure the release of 24 abducted students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.

A coalition of lawmakers, operating under the banner House to the Rescue, issued the criticism after presidential aide Bayo Onanuga suggested that dialogue formed part of the process that led to the students’ freedom.

The lawmakers condemned any form of negotiation with criminal groups, insisting it weakens national security and emboldens kidnappers. Their position followed Tuesday’s special plenary session, where lawmakers raised alarms over the rising wave of insecurity nationwide.

Representatives drawn from all six geopolitical zones warned that engaging armed groups responsible for abductions and attacks risks legitimising their operations. They cited security setbacks in Colombia, Mexico, Afghanistan, Somalia, and Mali as examples of how negotiating with violent non-state actors often exacerbates conflict.

The coalition argued that such talks could establish a dangerous pattern in which abductors begin to expect negotiations rather than face sustained security pressure. It urged the Federal Government to end all discussions with bandits and instead deploy intelligence-driven operations to rescue victims.

The group further demanded a clearly articulated national security strategy and strict National Assembly oversight of any officials involved in unauthorised contacts with criminal elements.

The statement was signed by lawmakers 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).