Aminu Jaji, a member of the House of Representatives from Zamfara State, has raised alarm over the escalating insecurity in his constituency, alleging that insurgents have become so depraved that they now feed newborns to their dogs.
Jaji, who represents Kaura-Namoda/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Congress, made the disturbing claim on Wednesday while addressing journalists at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
Sharing the horrific experiences of his constituents, a visibly emotional Jaji recounted: “A pregnant woman was kidnapped. She delivered twins while in captivity. The bandit leader took the babies and threw them to his dogs. The dogs devoured them one after the other.”
Calling for urgent national action, he said: “We need to rise to the occasion. We must speak the truth and act decisively. Something must be done.”
Despite the dire situation, Jaji rejected suggestions that mercenaries should be hired to support the fight against terrorism. He expressed confidence in the Nigerian Armed Forces, stating they can secure the country if adequately equipped and motivated.
“I don’t believe we need mercenaries. Our soldiers are capable. What we need is a more digital and strategic approach to operations,” he said.
He stressed the importance of proper funding and accountability: “Let’s ensure that the resources allocated to security agencies are well monitored and that their welfare is prioritised. If they’re well motivated, they will rise to the challenge.”
Jaji painted a bleak picture of the situation in his constituency, revealing that over 200 people have been abducted. He said 60 people were recently taken in Banga, and 10 were killed when the N30 million ransom demanded could not be paid. Another 25 were kidnapped in Gabake, and fresh attacks were recorded in Kungurki just a day earlier.
He warned that bandits now control vast areas of his constituency, acting as de facto authorities and terrorising communities at will.
Jaji urged a complete overhaul of Nigeria’s security strategy and expressed concern that President Bola Tinubu might not be getting accurate reports on the true state of affairs in the North-West.
