The House of Representatives on Tuesday directed security agencies to intensify efforts toward securing the release of 18 persons kidnapped by sea pirates in the Degema coastal area of Rivers State.
The directive followed a motion of urgent national importance moved by Cyril Hart, who represents the Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency. Hart informed the House that the abductions occurred in March and included a pregnant woman among the victims.
During the debate, lawmaker from Baruten/Ikalama Federal Constituency in Kwara State called on the Joint Task Force in the Niger Delta to take decisive action.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, referred the motion to the Committees on Navy and Police for further legislative input.