The Niger State House of Assembly has summoned the state’s Police boss, Ayodele Ogundele, to brief lawmakers next Monday on the unprecedented robbery incident at the palace of the Emir of Minna.
“If a respected and secured place like the Emir’s Palace could come under attack without challenge, then all of us are not safe. This is unfortunate and unacceptable, we urge the security agents to ensure that the perpetrators are arrested and brought to justice”, says House Speaker, Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkin.
The legislators also want a briefing on the security situation in the state capital and its environs.
Armed robbers at about 4.30 p.m. on Tuesday stormed the king’s palace, carting away staff salaries from the cashier at the gate and shooting two guards there. No arrest has been made other than the questioning of the cashier, who allegedly trailed from a commercial bank.
The Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkin said on Friday, in company with other legislators to the Emir, that the attack was unfortunate and unacceptable.
He expressed regret over the return of such crimes in the state capital despite the efforts of Governor Umar Mohammed Bago.
“We have summoned the Commissioner of Police to appear before the house to brief us on the update from the robbery incident and the general security situation in Minna and its environs, and the way forward….
“Security remains the top priority of the present administration and we will not relent until lives and property of the people are secured to guarantee the needed development”.
The Emir, Alhaji (Dr) Umar Farouk Bahago, thanked the Lawmakers for the visit to the Palace, expressing gratitude to God that no life was lost in the attack.
He lamented the security situation in the state, especially robbery incidents within Minna, and urged the government and the security agents not to relent until the situation is brought under control.
Emir Bahago assured the lawmakers of the cooperation of the State Council of the Traditional Rulers towards ensuring that the 10th Assembly succeed in it legislative functions for the overall benefit of the people.
