Summary
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has unveiled a proposal that will, within the next six months, introduce penalties for government officials who engage in ransom discussions with criminal groups.
Kalu outlined the initiative during Tuesday’s special national security session in the lower chamber, noting that the legislative step is crucial to strengthening the country’s fight against insecurity.
He explained, “The number three is the priority legislative agenda. What do we need to do in phase one, between now and six months?
“What is the foundation of what we need to do? What is the crisis response that the parliament needs to look into? Number one is the anti-banditry resolution: to legally prohibit ransom negotiation and mandate criminal justice process over amnesty programmes.
“The key provisions are are follows: (1) Criminal penalties for government officials who negotiate ransom or authorise unstructured amnesty deals.”
He further stressed the importance of prosecuting offenders, saying, “Number two is mandatory prosecution through the criminal justice system for all banditry suspects.”
The lawmaker from Abia State lamented the escalating insecurity nationwide, insisting that the situation demands immediate intervention from the government and security institutions.
“As you all know, Nigeria’s security challenges as it is now, demand urgent action,” he said to colleagues and participants at the session.
Kalu also urged improvements in policing, advocating that processes for establishing state or local police units be accelerated.
He emphasised that with upgraded equipment and modern technology, Nigeria’s security agencies, particularly the police, can respond more effectively to criminal activities.
The special session was convened amid rising security concerns, especially in recent weeks, during which armed groups have kidnapped schoolchildren and worshippers in several communities.
In response to the renewed wave of violence, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has directed security operatives to intensify efforts. The government has made significant decisions, including the withdrawal of police officers from very important persons (VIPs).
The president has also put foreign trips on hold due to the growing number of killings and abductions.
What You Should Know
Benjamin Kalu’s proposal signals a major policy shift that aims to remove the incentive for government officials to enter ransom negotiations, a practice critics believe empowers criminal groups.
His advocacy for structured policing reforms and mandatory prosecution places legislative responsibility at the centre of Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
The initiative aligns with broader federal efforts to counter the recent surge in kidnappings and attacks across the country.
