Deputy Speaker Seeks Outlining Law Punishing Officials Who Negotiate Ransom Within 6 Months

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called for the introduction of strict sanctions against government officials involved in negotiating ransom payments, proposing that such penalties be enacted within the next six months.

Kalu made the proposal on Tuesday during a special legislative session focused on Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.

He said the parliament must adopt decisive measures to disrupt the growing influence of bandit groups across the country.

Outlining part of the chamber’s priority security agenda, the Deputy Speaker said lawmakers must move quickly to outlaw any form of ransom negotiation by state actors.

“Our first phase, within the next six months, demands firm legislative action. We must criminalise ransom negotiations and replace unregulated amnesty deals with proper judicial processes,” Kalu stated.

He explained that the suggested legal framework would introduce punitive measures for officials who engage in ransom discussions or approve informal amnesty arrangements.

Kalu also stressed the need for compulsory prosecution of all individuals accused of banditry through the formal justice system.

Expressing concern over the escalating wave of abductions and violent attacks, the Abia lawmaker urged the Federal Government and security agencies to respond more swiftly and strategically.

“Nigeria’s current security situation requires immediate intervention,” he warned.

Kalu further advocated for strengthened policing structures, including accelerating efforts toward establishing state or community police formations.

He noted that improved technology and modern policing tools would significantly enhance the ability of security agencies to combat crime.

Tuesday’s session came amid renewed nationwide anxiety following multiple high-profile kidnappings of schoolchildren, worshippers and residents in several states in recent weeks.