Abuja, Nigeria— The House of Representatives has called for the swift and unconditional release of 18 individuals kidnapped by sea pirates en route to Bonny Kingdom, Rivers State.
The demand was made during Tuesday’s plenary session following a motion of urgent public importance raised by Hon. Cyril Hart, a lawmaker representing Rivers State.
Addressing the rising insecurity on the state’s waterways, Hon. Hart recounted the abduction which occurred on May 6, 2025, involving boats carrying passengers, including women and children, bound for Bille and Bonny communities. He stressed that these routes—accessible only by water—are vital to the region’s socio-economic activities.
“The waterways are the only means of moving goods and people to Bille and Bonny. Any disruption severely threatens local livelihoods,” Hon. Hart stated. “The pirates not only kidnapped 18 persons but also carted away food supplies and personal property worth millions, deepening economic hardship in the affected communities.”
He also expressed concern over the increasing frequency of such attacks, recalling a previous incident on March 26, 2025, where six individuals were abducted and one was killed despite ransom payment—underscoring what he termed an “alarming rise in maritime criminality.”
The House unanimously adopted the motion through a voice vote, condemning the abduction and urging authorities to act swiftly.
In a related resolution, the House called on Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to immediately deploy newly acquired gunboats for rescue operations. Members further urged the establishment of permanent security houseboats at strategic points along the waterways to prevent future incidents.
The motion concluded with a firm appeal for stronger maritime security frameworks to safeguard coastal communities and restore public confidence.
By Adeola Olaniya | May 16, 2025
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