The House of Representatives has called for the immediate and unconditional release of 18 people kidnapped by sea pirates on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Rivers State.
The victims, including a pregnant woman and children, were abducted while traveling by boat to Bille and Bonny Kingdom. The pirates also stole cargo boats carrying food items and other goods worth millions of naira.
This call was made during Tuesday’s plenary after a motion of urgent public importance was raised by Hon. Cyril Hart, who represents Rivers State in the House.
Hon. Hart told the House that the only means of transportation to the Bonny and Bille communities is by water, using wooden and fibre boats.
He said the attack has badly affected the local economy and the livelihood of the people.
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He also reminded the House that a similar incident happened on March 26, 2025, where six people were kidnapped and one person was later killed even after ransom had been paid.
He said the rising number of attacks shows the growing threat of pirates on the waterways.
He also highlighted that the repeated attacks not only endanger lives but also reduce public confidence in the security system.
The House supported the motion through a voice vote and called for the immediate rescue of the victims.
Lawmakers also urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to use the newly donated gunboats to secure the waterways and rescue the kidnapped persons.
