The House of Representatives, on Wednesday, has raised concern over the increasing activities of “one chance” criminals in the FCT and the condition in which the victims are left.
In a motion moved by Hon Billy Osewaru representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency, Edo State, during plenary, he cited the lack of synergy between the Nigerian Police and Financial Institutions (banks) makes it difficult for victims to recover monies stolen from their banks by the perpetrators.
Taking cognizance of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s directive, which states that all bank accounts must be linked to respective phone numbers, Osewaru called on the police and financial institutions such as Opay and MoneyPoint to give reference to such cases and provide timely assistance to ensure victims get justice.
The motion has been referred to the Committee on Financial Institutions for further legislative action.
Meanwhile, the House has moved to investigate the activities of the Nigerian Customs Service in connection with the smuggling and maltreatment of Nigerians in the cause of carrying out their duties.
The Green Chamber cited an incident involving a journalist in Badagry, Lagos State earlier this month who was assaulted while attempting to make a video recording of activities at a location he described as a “smuggling zone.
Hon Oluwaseun Whingan who moved the motion raised eyebrows over the behaviour of the Customs officers.
Among other things, he called for the investigation of the Nigerian Customs Service’s legal framework and the activities of officers of the agency while carrying out their duties
The motion was, however, referred to the appropriate committee.