The House of Representatives has urged the authorities to deploy security personnel to the coastal areas of Akwa Ibom State.
This decision was reached during a plenary session presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Mr. Uduak Odudoh.
In their resolution, the House called upon security agencies to provide incentives to maritime security personnel to motivate and encourage them to uphold the rules of engagement within their agencies. Additionally, the House mandated its Committee on Maritime Safety, Education, and Administration to ensure compliance with these measures.
The motion highlighted the need for increased security deployment to counteract the ongoing economic sabotage orchestrated by pirates and armed robbers in the coastal areas. The activities of these criminals pose threats to national security and economic stability, hindering the livelihoods and economic activities of the affected communities.
Mr. Odudoh expressed concern about the perpetual fear experienced by residents of the coastal areas in Akwa Ibom State due to incessant pirate attacks. He emphasized that economic activities in these communities have been severely hampered, leaving their sources of livelihood at risk.
The lawmaker pointed out that fishermen in the affected areas are compelled to pay royalties to pirates in order to engage in their activities on the waters. Non-compliance with these levies puts them at risk of violence, including potential harm to their lives, theft, or vandalism of their boats, equipment, and other valuable assets.
The coastal areas in Akwa Ibom State encompass Eastern Obolo, Mkpat Enin, Ikot Abasi, Ibeno, Mbo, Oron, Okobo, Udung Uko, and Urue-Offong/Oruko Local Government Areas. The waterways of Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin, and Eastern Obolo Local Government Areas are interconnected with other communities in the Niger Delta region, including Andoni and Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Areas in Rivers State.
By urging increased security deployment, the House of Representatives aims to protect the coastal communities of Akwa Ibom State from piracy and armed robbery activities. Enhancing security presence in these areas will help restore peace, ensure the safety of residents, and stimulate economic activities vital for the well-being and progress of the affected communities.