Senate Probes Adamawa Attacks, Orders Relief for Displaced Communities

By Margaret Abah

The Senate of Nigeria on Wednesday launched a formal investigation into renewed attacks in Lamurde Local Government Area of Adamawa State, while directing the immediate provision of relief materials to affected communities.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Binos Yaroe, who raised concerns over coordinated attacks on Kwa, Gyakan, Rigange, Waduku, and Tchobo communities.

The attacks, reportedly carried out by armed assailants on motorcycles, have left several residents dead and many others displaced, worsening the security situation in the area.

Leading the debate, Yaroe described the attacks as brutal and targeted at defenceless residents, despite existing security measures in place.

“Lawmakers are worried that these attacks take place despite a dusk-to-dawn curfew being in force and the presence of many security personnel in the area,” he said.

In response, the Senate mandated its Committee on National Security and Intelligence to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the crisis with a view to restoring lasting peace.

Lawmakers also directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to urgently deploy relief materials to victims who have been displaced from their homes.

The chamber observed a one-minute silence in honour of those killed in the attacks.

Contributing to the debate, Senator Amos Yohanna described the situation as “very sad,” noting that insecurity in the area has persisted for years despite repeated interventions.

“I am fully aware of the efforts of the state government to bring peace to that area, but it has refused to go away over the years,” he said.

Yohanna called for stronger collaboration between federal lawmakers and the Adamawa State Government, as well as intensified security operations in affected communities.

“They have been doing a lot in that area. We just want to encourage them and urge them to do more,” he added.

Following deliberations, the Senate unanimously adopted all prayers of the motion, signalling renewed legislative action to address the lingering insecurity in parts of Adamawa State.