Terrorists Establish Stronghold in Former Tourist Haven
A federal lawmaker from Niger State has raised alarm over the complete takeover of Kainji National Park by terrorist elements, transforming what was once Nigeria's premier wildlife and tourism destination into an operational base for criminal activities.
Honourable Jafaru Mohammad Ali, representing Borgu/Agwara Federal Constituency, made the shocking revelation during a press briefing at the House of Representatives on Wednesday. The visibly disturbed lawmaker spoke shortly after surviving what he described as a brutal attack by the same bandits now controlling the park.
Park Facilities Converted to Terrorist Bases
The lawmaker confirmed that terrorists have displaced park rangers, seized administrative offices, and converted tourist facilities into operational bases. "Nobody can enter the park anymore," Ali lamented. "The National Park has become a haven for terrorists, residents are being displaced, forced to compromise, or killed."
He emphasized the gravity of the situation, warning that without immediate intervention, the entire constituency risks total domination by these criminals who now operate openly without challenge.
Cross-Border Security Threat Emerges
The crisis extends beyond Niger State, with the park serving as a launchpad for attacks on neighboring states and countries. The lawmaker revealed that the park, which straddles multiple states, is now being used to coordinate attacks on Niger, Kebbi, and Kwara States, as well as the neighboring Benin Republic.
Ali provided disturbing details about the composition of the terrorist groups, noting that "many of the terrorists are foreign fighters moving through interconnected forest reserves to strengthen their hold on the region."
Recent Attacks Linked to Park Takeover
The lawmaker cited several recent incidents directly connected to the park's occupation by terrorists:
- The November 21 abduction of 303 students and 12 teachers from St. Mary's Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area
- The November 4 ambush on his convoy by the bandits
- The November 2 killings at Gidan Guga
- Last Tuesday's ambush along the Lumma-Babanna road that left one soldier and six others dead, which the lawmaker narrowly escaped
Urgent Calls for Military Intervention
Ali presented a comprehensive action plan during his motion under Matters of Urgent Public Importance. He urged the House to direct the Chief of Defence Staff to deploy well-equipped troops and establish Forward Operating Bases in strategic communities including Lumma, Audu Fari, Agwara, and Mago.
The lawmaker also called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Refugee Commission to provide immediate assistance to displaced residents. Looking toward long-term solutions, he requested that NALDA and the Agriculture Ministry transform the park into a secure agricultural zone once cleared of terrorist elements.
Direct Appeal to President Tinubu
Making a passionate plea to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ali reminded the President of the longstanding ties between the Borgu Emirate and his administration. "We supported him. We won all the polling units for him. We don't want anything from him—only peace in our communities," the lawmaker concluded, warning that continued neglect could deepen the suffering of residents in the affected areas.
The situation represents a significant escalation in Nigeria's security challenges, with a major national asset now serving as a terrorist stronghold threatening multiple states and international borders.
