‘More than 8,000 have died’ — senate calls for ceasefire in Israel-Hamas war

The senate has called for a ceasefire in the war between Isreal and Hamas, saying that more than 8,000 people have lost their lives in the conflict.

The upper legislative chamber took the position on Tuesday after a motion sponsored by Mohammed Aliero, senator representing Kebbi central, and Kawu Sumaila, lawmaker representing Kano south.

The ministry of health in Palastine said more than 10,000 people have lost their lives in the conflict.

The war begun after Hamas attacked Isreal in October.

While moving the motion, Aliero said the war has claimed the lives of over 8,000 women, children and journalists.

“From October 2023 to date, Israeli air attacks and shelling aimed at houses and apartment buildings have displaced some 123,538 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the UN humanitarian relief agency,” the senator said.

“Disturbed that the latest media reports, citing the Gaza Ministry of Health, indicate that the number of people killed in Gaza since October 7 has risen to over 8,000.

“Women, children and members of the press have made up more than 62 percent of the fatalities, while more than 15,273 people have been injured.”

Contributing to the debate, Jibrin Barau, deputy president of the senate, said the conflict must be put to an end.

“So many people have lost their lives, when you watch the television, you’ll see many dead persons.

“We should add our voices for permanent peace to prevail. Let the killing stop.”

On his part, Sani Musa, senator representing Niger east, said Nigeria should be on the side of peace in the conflict.

“It is all about humanity. It is not about who is right or wrong. It is about the killing. If we are calling for peace, I don’t think there is any big deal,” Musa said.

“Nigeria should be seen to have voted on the side of peace. My heart bleeds when I see children and ladies being killed and schools being burnt.”

The motion was adopted after Senate President Godswill Akpabio put it to vote.