TheCable

The house of representatives has asked the federal government to construct rural roads to connect communities situated around the Sambisa forest in Borno state.

The green chamber said such roads will open up the areas and curb the frequent attacks launched on the residents by Boko Haram insurgents.

The lawmakers made the call at Tuesday’s plenary session following a motion by Haruna Mshelia from Borno.

Sambisa forest is known as a stronghold of Boko Haram insurgents.

Mshelia said many community that have boundaries with Sambisa do not have roads connecting them.

He said while many of the communities have been attacked by the insurgents, their situation is worsened by the absence of roads which he said has cut them off from other places.

He said the absence of roads have also made it difficult for security agencies to navigate the areas in pursuit of the insurgents whenever they attack the residents.

The lawmaker said the roads would also boost the agricultural output of residents, many of whom are farmers.

The house subsequently adopted the motion, urging the North–East Development Commission to consult with relevant government agencies and ministries to “as a matter of urgency” commence the construction of the road.