Lagos Assembly Advocates Strengthening Neighborhood Watch To Counter Kidnappings

Eko Hot Blog reports that, amid the rising incidents of kidnapping across some states in the federation, the Lagos State House of Assembly has called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to increase the personnel in the Lagos Neighborhood Safety Corps (LNSC) to effectively assist other security agencies.

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During a session discussing “Matter of Urgent Public Importance,” the House expressed sympathy with the affected states and families of kidnapping victims. Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the Speaker, stated, “It is very important for every Nigerian to rise up and speak against kidnapping just as he sympathised with affected states and families of victims.”

Obasa highlighted the gravity of the situation, saying, “It is painful that while parents struggle to send their children to school to seek knowledge, evil people in the name of kidnappers are hell-bent on destroying the future of the children.”

The Speaker commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for raising her voice and advocating for capital punishment as a deterrent. “We must commend our First Lady for being bold and coming out and even talking about capital punishment,” Obasa said.

While acknowledging the military’s efforts, the Speaker suggested they could do more, even if it means relocating to areas where these attacks are frequent. He also urged the National Assembly to review existing laws related to kidnapping and expedite action on state police.

The Deputy Majority Leader, Hon. Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, emphasized the need for governors and speakers of states to act regarding related legislation.

Hon. Tobun Abiodun and Nureni Akinsanya commended the Speaker for raising the issue, noting that Lagos is gradually experiencing cases of kidnappings.

Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh suggested establishing special courts to try alleged kidnappers and speed up trial processes, while Hon. Abiodun Orekoya urged the military to employ technology in their surveillance efforts.

Meanwhile, Speaker Obasa congratulated Muslims in Nigeria as the Ramadan commences, urging those who have to share with those in need. “He urged Muslims to pray for peace and the country while encouraging Nigerians to show love to one another irrespective of religious beliefs,” the report stated.

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The Lagos State House of Assembly’s call for increased personnel in the Neighbourhood Safety Corps and commendation of Senator Remi Tinubu’s advocacy for capital punishment for kidnappers reflect the urgency of addressing the kidnapping crisis plaguing the nation.

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