Kidnappings on highways alarming — Reps minority caucus

By Christiana Ekpa

The minority caucus in the house of representatives has expressed concern over the insecurity in the country.
In a statement issued on Monday, Kingsley Chinda, leader of the caucus, said the “frequent” abductions of travellers on highways have become worrisome.
Highlighting a series of recent kidnappings of commuters, the lawmakers said the 29 medical students whisked away by gunmen in Benue while travelling for a conference threatens the future of education and healthcare in the country.
“These young men and women, dedicated to pursuing knowledge and bettering the lives of their fellow Nigerians, must not be left to suffer in the hands of criminals,” the statement reads.
The caucus also condemned the kidnapping of Isa Muhammad Bawa, the Sarkin Gobir of Gatawa district in Sokoto, and his son, describing it as an affront to traditional institutions.
The legislators said the killing of Tanimu Kunbiya, the Gara of Chanchanji, and his son Yusuf, in Taraba state, shows a total breakdown of security in the nation.
“The alarming rate in which criminals have seized our nation by the jugular, casting doubts on the capacity of the nation-state to defend itself and protect citizens calls for serious concerns,” the caucus said.
“No section of our country appears safe for citizens to live their lives, uplift their wellbeing, and contribute to the growth and progress of our country.”