Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District, has called for a tougher national response to insecurity, urging an end to the rehabilitation of convicted terrorists and demanding immediate prosecution of individuals found guilty of terrorism and other violent crimes.
Kalu made the call during plenary on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday while contributing to discussions on the country’s security challenges and the protection of Nigerians abroad.
The former Abia State governor aligned himself with the position of the Senate advocating stronger measures against criminality, stressing that justice must take precedence in the nation’s fight against terrorism and violent crimes.
According to the lawmaker, individuals convicted of terrorism should face the full weight of the law rather than being subjected to rehabilitation programmes.
“Justice must prevail, and the safety of Nigerians must remain our highest priority,” Kalu stated.
The senator also used the opportunity to condemn the recurring xenophobic attacks against Nigerians residing in South Africa, describing the incidents as unacceptable and a violation of the rights and dignity of Nigerian citizens.
He noted that while diplomacy remains the preferred approach in resolving disputes between nations, Nigeria must be prepared to adopt firmer and more decisive measures should diplomatic engagements fail to guarantee the safety and protection of its citizens.
Kalu recalled Nigeria’s historic support for South Africa during the struggle against apartheid, arguing that the sacrifices made by Nigeria and its people during that period should not be forgotten.
He lamented reports of Nigerians being attacked, killed, and deprived of their businesses and properties in South Africa, insisting that such actions should not be tolerated.
The senator, however, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their measured handling of the situation, particularly efforts made to evacuate affected Nigerians from areas impacted by the violence.
He further called on the South African Government to take immediate steps to protect Nigerians living within its borders, prosecute those responsible for the attacks, and ensure adequate compensation for victims who suffered losses.
Kalu emphasized that Nigeria must not only guarantee the security of its citizens within the country but also defend their rights and dignity wherever they reside.
“Nigeria deserves security at home and respect abroad,” the senator declared.
His remarks come amid growing concerns over insecurity across parts of Nigeria and renewed reports of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Nigerians, in South Africa.
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