By: Nwakaji Peace Martins
Members of the House of Representatives, yesterday, opposed a proposal urging the Federal Government to enlist the services of mercenaries in the battle against insecurity in the nation.
The legislators, while providing feedback on the suggestion put forth by Ahmed Jaha as an addendum to a motion addressing banditry in specific areas of Katsina State, expressed reservations about the potential negative outcomes of involving mercenaries.
Jaha contended that given the persistent security threats in the country despite the diligent efforts of security agencies, it was appropriate for the government to consider employing mercenaries, a strategy previously utilized during the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan.
“Given the insurgency we are grappling with, there is merit in seeking assistance from other nations. Nigeria does not possess the same level of power and influence as Ukraine or Russia. There is justification in enlisting mercenaries to eradicate insecurity in our land; otherwise, the food scarcity experienced this year may worsen next year. Their current tactic is to target farmers and deter them from tending to their fields.
“We commend our security agencies for their commendable efforts, but additional support is imperative. Transparency is essential so that we can inform our constituents accordingly.”However, the former deputy speaker, Idris Wase, emphasized that the matter of engaging mercenaries was not suitable for public discourse.
Wase underscored that globally, sensitive security matters were not deliberated openly in any parliament.
Likewise, Abbas Adigun maintained that it would be inappropriate for the Nigerian government to resort to hiring mercenaries to combat insecurity in the nation.
“Soliciting another country to dispatch mercenaries to our aid is a slight to our status as the giant of Africa. Our security agencies can collaborate with retired service chiefs to address this challenge. Enhancing the capabilities of our security forces is crucial. The welfare of our security personnel must be prioritized. When they embark on missions, there is a significant risk to their lives, so what provisions are made for their families?
“They require advanced equipment to confront the insurgents. Do we have all the necessary resources to effectively combat them? No. In the 9th Assembly, although security matters were extensively discussed, no tangible actions were taken, which is why I abstain from security meetings in this assembly,” he remarked.
The Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the discussion, following the array of opinions presented on the matter, urged Jaha to withdraw the proposal. Consequently, the lawmaker opted to withdraw the motion, expressing optimism that the subject would be deliberated in a closed executive session.
Nevertheless, the House decided that its leadership would convene with President Tinubu to address concerns related to the escalating insecurity in the nation. It also urged the government to reconstruct security infrastructure that had been dismantled by insurgents.
