Reps to interface with security chiefs over mysterious disappearance of Vanguard reporter

By KEHINDE AKINTOLA, Abuja

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila on Tuesday directed various standing committees in security to interface with the security chiefs with a view to ensuring the safe return of the Vanguard Newspaper’s Reporter, Mr Tordue Salem.

The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion titled: ‘A case of missing Journalist, Need to investigate circumstances surrounding the disappearance’, sponsored by the Minority Leader, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, who expressed concern over the efficiency of the nation’s security apparatus.

“The House note that Mr Tordue Henry Salem is a member of the House of Representative’s press corps and he reports for the Vanguard Newspaper.

“The House is aware that Mr Salem reported for work at the National Assembly premises on Wednesday the 13th of October and was last seen in Garki District of FCT before his alleged disappearance the same day.

“The House is further aware that his disappearance was immediately reported to the relevant security agencies as all efforts by both friends and family to reach him have been abortive.

“The House is worried that inspite of official effort by the leadership of the house to galvanise the security agencies at promptly resolving his disappearance.

There’s been no headway.

“The House is further worried that this sudden disappearance is an extension of the deteriorating state of insecurity in the nation’s capital and again questions the efficiency of the country’s security operatives.

“The House is concerned that if necessary measures are not put in place to curtail the indiscriminate disappearance of innocent Nigerians living in Abuja, the federal capital may soon become a breeding ground for kidnappers and bandits, hence the need for an urgent investigation,” the Minority Leader urged.

In his remarks, Hon. Gbajabiamila who presided over the session affirmed that he has been in regular touch with the heads of various security agencies.

He acknowledged that Mr Salem has been reporting the House activities for a long time, hence urged all the members to rally support for the motion.

While calling on all security agencies in Nigeria should urgently investigate his whereabouts, the House mandated the Chairman, House Committee on Defence, Hon Babajimi Benson to coordinate other Standing Committees including Committees on National Security and Intelligence, Police and Interior should interface with service chiefs and other security agencies so as to find the missing Tordue and report back to the House within two weeks. (Nigerian Tribune)