The House of Representatives has issued a passionate call for swift and coordinated action by Nigeria’s security agencies to secure the immediate release of 18 individuals abducted by sea pirates along the Degema coastal axis in Rivers State.
The plea was made during Tuesday’s plenary session in Abuja following a motion of urgent national importance raised by Rep. Cyril Hart, who represents Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency.
Raising the alarm, Hart revealed that the abduction, which occurred in March, involved a group of innocent travelers, including a pregnant woman whose welfare has sparked serious concern. “The lives of these captives hang in the balance, and every passing day increases the risk to their safety,” Hart warned.
Backing the motion, another lawmaker from Baruten/Ikalama Federal Constituency, Kwara State, called on the Joint Task Force operating in the Niger Delta to act decisively and deploy all necessary resources to bring the victims home.
In response, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, directed the matter to the Committees on Navy and Police for immediate legislative follow-up and oversight.
The lawmakers emphasized that the rising wave of maritime insecurity in the Niger Delta threatens not just the lives of citizens but also the economic stability of coastal communities. They urged security agencies to “rise to the occasion” and reaffirm their commitment to protecting lives and restoring safety in the region.
