By HAUWA IBRAHIM

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kebbi State chapter, has expressed shock and deep concern over the abduction of the Deputy Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Samila Bambu, who was kidnapped by gunmen in Bagudo town.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its Publicity Secretary, Engr. Atiku Abubakar Musa, the ADC described the incident as “distressing and unacceptable,” adding that it exposes the growing breakdown of security across the state.

“If the Deputy Speaker — a high-ranking government official — can be abducted in his own constituency, then the question is: who is truly safe in Kebbi State?” the statement queried.

The party said the abduction was not a political matter but a reflection of “the value of human life, the collapse of security, and the government’s failure to protect its citizens.”

The ADC criticized the state government for what it described as intolerance toward politicians who speak truth to power, citing the recent case of Senator Garba Maidoki (APC, Kebbi South), who raised a motion in the Senate drawing national attention to the worsening insecurity in the state.

“Instead of appreciating such patriotic efforts, the state government chose to view it as an act of disloyalty. This arrogance and denial only deepen fear and strengthen the enemies of peace,” the statement said.

The party also faulted the Kebbi State House of Assembly for failing to confront the security challenge with courage and sincerity, saying the legislature had not summoned the government for explanations nor demonstrated the will to defend the people it represents.

“Now that one of their own has fallen victim to the same insecurity suffered by ordinary citizens, will they finally rise to their constitutional duty?” the ADC asked.

The party urged the House of Assembly to go beyond issuing condolence messages and instead take “decisive legal and moral action” to hold the executive accountable.

The ADC further extended condolences to the communities of Bunza and Zuru, which recently suffered deadly attacks resulting in deaths and abductions of civilians. It prayed for the safe return of abductees, comfort for bereaved families, and lasting peace in the affected areas.

“Kebbi State must not become a land where fear replaces governance,” the statement concluded, praying for the safe return of Rt. Hon. Muhammad Samila Bambu and restoration of enduring peace across the state.