Bandits demand 20litres of petrol as ransom for kidnapped Pastor
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Following persistent attacks and abductions by bandits, the Niger State House of Assembly says it will review the law establishing the Vigilante group to enable them carry firearms for self-defense.
A resolution to that effect was passed following a motion on a “Matter of Public Importance” sponsored by Mr. Suleiman Gambo, the member representing Paikoro Constituency.
Gambo in his presentation decried Saturday’s attacks in Paikoro Local Government area where eleven people were killed, and several others kidnapped.
The bandits numbering over 200 attacked Gwajau, Sikiti, Kudami, Zonkolo, Abolo and Amale communities with sophisticated weapons, said the Lawmaker.
A Pastor kidnapped along with others, Gambo said was later released after negotiation and delivery of 20 litres of petrol to the kidnappers. Others, he said were still in captivity.
“Security agencies must be up and doing in the discharge of their fundamental responsibilities,” said Gambo, lamenting poor response from security operatives during attacks.
Also speaking, Hon. Malik Madaki, member representing Bosso constituency, said the security situation in the state was “alarming and worrisome.”
Similar attacks were carried out in communities like Maitumbi which is less than a kilometer within the state capital, he said.
Similarly, on Thursday morning, gunmen believed to be bandits attacked Avu community in gupa- abugi ward of Lapai local government area, killing one and kidnapping six.
A member of the community, Idris Musa Avu said the gunmen arrived the village around 1:00 am, in large numbers. “People were scampering for safety as they were shooting sporadically, one person was killed and six people were kidnapped,” he said.
Also, over 50 people were abducted by bandits in Bassa community in Shiroro local government area of the state.
The bandits stormed the village on motorcycles, it was gathered.
The Co-convener, Concerned Shiroro Youths, Sani Abubakar Kokki confirmed the attack adding that on Tuesday, some other communities in Bassa/Kokki were attacked with “A lot of losses” recorded.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Abiodun Wasiu said he will get back to the Reporter when he has details.
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