Hon. Aminu Jaji Raises Alarm Over Mass Abductions in Zamfara, Urges Urgent Federal Action
Hon. Aminu Sani Jaji, the Member representing Kaura Namoda/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency of Zamfara State in the House of Representatives, has decried the alarming spate of kidnappings in his constituency, revealing that over 200 residents have been abducted by bandits in recent weeks.
Addressing members of the press at the National Assembly on Wednesday, Hon. Jaji detailed the worsening security situation in his constituency, citing a wave of violent attacks and abductions that have left communities devastated.
He disclosed that in Banga village alone, 60 people were kidnapped within a span of two weeks. Tragically, 10 of the abducted victims were later killed after their community failed to raise the N30 million ransom demanded by the kidnappers.
“As we were mourning those losses, another 25 individuals were abducted in Gabake,” Jaji recounted. “Just yesterday, fresh attacks were carried out in Kungurki. The situation is deteriorating rapidly, and our people are living in constant fear.”
Hon. Jaji, who previously chaired the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence during the 8th Assembly, called on the federal government to take immediate and comprehensive steps to address the security crisis in Zamfara and other affected states. He warned that the scale of insecurity has transcended regional concerns and now poses a nationwide threat.
“Insecurity is not unique to Zamfara. It is a national emergency affecting more than 20 states across the federation,” he stated. “Declaring a state of emergency in Zamfara alone would be shortsighted. What we are facing is no longer a political challenge—it is a humanitarian disaster. If urgent action is not taken, the entire country stands to suffer.”
Reacting to suggestions in some quarters advocating for the use of foreign mercenaries to fight insurgency and banditry, the lawmaker strongly rejected the idea. He emphasized confidence in the capabilities of Nigeria’s military and called for enhanced support and modernization of their operations.
“I do not believe that Nigeria needs to rely on mercenaries to fight terrorism,” Jaji said. “Our soldiers are courageous and capable. What they need is adequate funding, modern equipment, and a shift toward more digital and intelligence-driven security operations.”
He further stressed the importance of accountability in the use of security funds and the welfare of personnel on the frontlines. “We must ensure that the resources allocated to our security agencies are properly utilized,” he added. “When our troops are well-equipped and motivated, they will go to any length to defend this country.”
Hon. Jaji’s remarks underscore the growing frustration among citizens and lawmakers alike over the deepening security crisis, with calls mounting for a more strategic and unified federal response to restore peace and order across Nigeria.