Kalu Condemns Abduction of Kebbi Deputy Speaker, Calls for Decisive Federal Action on Insecurity

By Rubby Obinna

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, has expressed deep concern and sympathy to the government and people of Kebbi State following the abduction of the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Samaila Bambu.

Describing the incident as “shocking and distressing,” Kalu lamented the escalating insecurity in the country, stressing that it has reached a critical point requiring urgent, coordinated, and sincere intervention from all levels of government.

In a statement released on Saturday morning, Kalu said he was “deeply pained” by the abduction and urged the Federal Government to take a more decisive approach to address the increasing cases of kidnapping, insurgency, and banditry across the nation.

“This incident in Kebbi once again highlights that insecurity has become a national challenge that must be confronted without politics or bias,” Kalu stated. “I have said it many times — the Federal Government must take stronger, more coordinated steps to protect Nigerians. We cannot continue like this.”

The lawmaker commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued efforts to restore peace and stability in the country, describing him as “a leader determined to build a safer and better Nigeria.” However, he emphasized that these efforts must be matched by concrete actions at every level of governance.

Confirming the incident, the Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Ahmed Idris, said the state government had received reports of the abduction and was collaborating with security agencies to verify details and ensure the safe return of the lawmaker.

“Yes, I just received information about the alleged abduction of the Deputy Speaker in his hometown this evening,” Idris said. “I am already in touch with the Director of Security in the state. Once we get the full details of what transpired, the government will issue an official statement.”

Idris assured citizens that the state government was “on top of the situation” and that efforts were ongoing to rescue the abducted lawmaker unharmed.

According to sources in Bagudo, the Deputy Speaker’s hometown, armed men stormed the area on Friday evening, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents. Eyewitnesses said Hon. Bambu was abducted shortly after observing his evening prayers and while returning home from the mosque.

Speaking further on the state of insecurity in the country, Senator Kalu reiterated his position that security matters should never be politicized. He emphasized that protecting lives and restoring peace must take precedence over political considerations.

“The issue of insecurity should not be treated with politics but with the seriousness it deserves,” he said. “The situation is deteriorating, and urgent action is required.”

Kalu, who chairs the Senate Committee on the South-East Development Commission, recalled his earlier remarks following Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum’s warning that parts of the state were slipping back under insurgent control.

He said, “The Minister of Information may mean well, but the truth is that Governor Zulum is right. If we fail to act decisively in Borno and the South-East, these regions could be completely overrun.”

He had also urged the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, not to downplay the severity of the situation but to ensure that President Tinubu receives a full and honest briefing on the true state of national security.

Kalu commended the Nigerian Army, the Police, and other security agencies for their sacrifices and commitment in combating terrorism and banditry across the country.

Rubby Obinna
November 1, 2025