Reps Maren, Bagos start global network for Plateau Boko Haram hostage

Members of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Hon. Solomon Maren and Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos on Sunday said they have started networking with friends and colleagues locally and internationally to facilitate the release of abducted Plateau aid worker, Miss Jennifer Ukambong Samuel.

The lawmakers who represent Mangu-Bokkos and Jos South-Jos East constituencies respectively told the abductee’s family during a visit to their Jos residence, that they were leaving nothing to chance in working her soon and safe return.

According to Hon. Maren, Jennifer, as many others in the custody of the insurgents is a victim of extreme ideologies fueled by poor policies and conflict resolution mechanisms.

Improper security management and corruption in the military, Maren said are additional factors driving insurgency in the country.

“But as representatives of the people, we will not relent in pursuing justice, good governance and social safety which is a top constitutional mandatory of government,” he said.

“The entire northeast is a great concern and it is unfortunate that for over ten years now, we are still battling the same problem.

“This calls for a change of strategy and we need to embrace modern technology if we must succeed,” Maren added.

On his part, Hon. Bagos said fighting to rescue Jennifer and others in captivity is one way to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.

He said, “We will make sure our fellow parliamentarians across the world join in this campaign.

“Jennifer as many young people had gone out to earn a living and was not a threat to anyone.

“Instead, she used her skills and experience to earn legitimate income and to positively impact the lives of others.

“To abandon her will therefore mean to discourage many others which would mean encouraging redundance and restiveness.”

Visibly excited, mother to Miss Jennifer, Mrs. Naomi Samuel told the lawmakers that her hope had been renewed by their visit and commitments.

Mr. Mark Dankwap, the leader of the Gura-topp community where Jennifer’s family house is located equally praised the lawmakers for defying the difficult terrains in the community to identify with the family.

Hon. Bagos under whose constituency the community is however requested for a list of problems faced for necessary action.

He specifically in company of his Mangu-Bokkos counterpart, Hon. Maren inspected road networks, and a stream requiring a bridge in the community.