Reps condemn maltreatment of Nigerians by security agents

House of Representatives yesterday called on the Federal Government to direct heads of security agencies to call their personnel to order to forestall abuse of firearms and maltreatment of Nigerians.

The call was the outcome of a motion sponsored by Solomon Adaelu (PDP- Abia), which was unanimously adopted by the lawmakers.

Moving the motion, Adaelu noted that the primary function of the security agencies was to protect lives and properties of Nigerians as well as maintain law and order.

He said cases of brutality, harassment, extra-judicial killings and excessive use of force by security personnel on hapless Nigerians had tarnished the image of the security agencies.

“The trend has become more alarming in recent time as security agents use their firearms indiscriminately and unlawfully on unarmed Nigerians,’’ he said.

Some relevant laws provide for the observance of rules of engagement in dealing with the civil populace, the lawmaker said, warning that if left not checked, the excesses might spiral out of control and could lead to breakdown of law and order.

The lawmaker said that in carrying out their functions, security agencies were permitted by law when necessary to use justifiable minimum amount of force or coercion.

While appreciating the commitment of security agencies in the discharge of their duties, the legislator stressed the need for the agencies to strengthen punitive measures to check erring officers.

“In most cases, the security agencies are either quick to defend their own or tactfully refuse to investigate the matter, let alone prosecute the erring officers,’’ he said.

The House adopted the motion after the speaker, Yakubu Dogara, put it to voice vote.