Lawmaker condemns attack on market boat by sea pirates in Bayelsa waterways, demands release of 4 abducted women

The lawmaker representing Southern Ijaw Constituency 4 in the Bayelsa state House of Assembly, Hon. Selekaye Ben, has in strong terms, condemned the recent attack on a market boat and abduction of 4 women by sea pirates betweern Lobia and Foropa communities along the waterways of Southern ljaw LGA, Bayelsa state.

Hon. Selekaye who is also the Chairman, House committee on Human Rights, in a statement he personally signed, expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as a threat to the peace in the state as well as the economic well-being of the constituency and beyond. The lawmaker equally called on relevant security agencies to secure the safe release of the 4 women abducted by the pirates as well as apprehending them.

“It is with deep concern and utter dismay that I received the news of the reprehensible act of sea piracy that occurred along the Lobia/Foropah waterways, leading to the abduction of four hardworking women traders heading to Foropa. This cowardly attack on innocent citizens, who were simply trying to earn their livelihoods, is not only an affront to our shared humanity but also a grave threat to the peace and economic well-being of our constituency and the entire state. I vehemently condemn this barbaric act in the strongest possible terms and stand in solidarity with the families of the victims during this agonizing time.

“I hereby call upon the Bayelsa State Government and all relevant security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Police Force, to act swiftly and decisively to secure the immediate and unconditional release of these abducted women. It is imperative that no stone is left unturned in apprehending these criminal elements and bringing them to justice. The safety and security of our waterways are paramount, and urgent steps must be taken to enhance surveillance and patrols to prevent future occurrences of such heinous crimes.

“The people of Southern Ijaw deserve to traverse our waterways without fear of molestation or attack. I implore the state government to prioritize the security of our maritime environment and to implement sustainable measures that will guarantee the safety of all those who depend on these routes for their daily sustenance. We must collectively work together to ensure that our waterways are safe havens for commerce and transportation, and that such acts of terror are eradicated from our communities,” he said.

The ugly incident occurred on Tuesday when a commercial boat carrying 15 passengers was heading from Swali waterside in Yenagoa to Foropa (a costal community near the Atlantic ocean). 11 Passengers were reportedly robbed of valuables before being released, while 4 women were abducted.

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