Revoke Airstrip License Granted Oyedepo, Others, Reps Urges Govt
Nigeria’s House of Representatives has taken a significant step to boost national security by calling for the revocation of existing airstrip licenses held by private individuals and organizations.
This decision also includes halting the issuance of new licenses to prevent illegal activities like firearms and hard drug trafficking.
The motion, moved by Hon. Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi, highlighted the potential security risk posed by private airstrips, citing the recent approval of an airstrip for Living Faith Church in Ota, Ogun State, as an example. Bishop David Oyedepo, the church’s founder, had announced the approval during a recent congregation.
Gumi’s concerns are rooted in the country’s ongoing security challenges, including insurgency, kidnapping, and banditry. He recalled a 2014 incident where a private jet linked to a prominent religious leader was seized in South Africa with $9.3 million in cash on board, intended for arms purchase. This incident underscores the risks associated with private airstrips.
The adopted motion mandates the House Committees on Aviation and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance with the resolution. This move aims to safeguard national security and prevent the proliferation of illegal activities.
Nigeria’s security challenges are complex and multifaceted. The country has struggled with banditry, particularly in the northwest region, where armed groups have carried out mass attacks, kidnappings, and cattle rustling. The 2024 Mo Ibrahim Report has also highlighted Nigeria’s governance issues, emphasizing the need for decisive action to address these challenges.
By revoking private airstrip licenses, the government hopes to prevent the exploitation of these facilities for illicit activities, thereby enhancing national security. This decision demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the country’s security concerns and ensuring the safety of its citizens.