The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, once considered a haven of tranquility and security, is now grappling with a surge in kidnapping cases, leaving residents in a constant state of fear and anxiety.
The situation has prompted calls for immediate action from authorities to restore safety and protect lives and property.
Over the weekend, residents of Dei-Dei town, situated off Kubwa-Zuba Road under the Bwari area council in Abuja, were shocked by the abduction of more than 23 individuals, primarily taken from three housing estates in the area.
The kidnappers, reportedly clad in military uniforms, conducted the operation quietly in the livestock layout area, located on the edge of the popular Abuja livestock market, Dei-Dei.
Within 48 hours of this incident, two children and nine adults were abducted at Gbaupe village, behind Aco Estate, along Airport Road in Abuja.
Another kidnapping occurred at the nearby Arab Road residential area in Kubwa town on Sunday, where seven residents were taken by kidnappers believed to share the same base as the Dei-Dei operators.
In a separate incident along the Kaduna – Abuja highways near Katari, in the Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, terrorists abducted over 85 people, including both travelers and residents. Unfortunately, more than four residents lost their lives during the attack. The security challenges extend to other criminal activities, including “one-chance” occurrences in public transportation, car snatchings, and armed robberies.
The deteriorating security situation in Abuja has residents expressing frustration and growing concerns. Mr. Ahmed Usman, a trader in Zuba, lamented the transformation of Abuja from a once-safe place into an environment where individuals fear for their safety. He emphasized the need for immediate intervention to restore peace.
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Various community members, including a traditional ruler and a public school teacher, voiced their concerns over the rising cases of kidnappings. They called on the government to prioritize safety measures and collaborate with local communities to address the heinous crime.
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and experts are also weighing in on the situation. Hamzat Lawal, the founder of Connected Development, criticized FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, alleging divided interests between his role in Abuja and partisan politics in Rivers State.
Lawal urged the Minister to focus on ensuring the safety of Abuja residents.
Ade Mario Emmanuel, Director General of the Coalition of Nigeria Youth on Security and Safety Affairs, highlighted the importance of increased security personnel in FCT and tightening security at the borders.
He called for urgent attention to local communities surrounding FCT, as they serve as hideouts for criminal elements.
Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, the Executive Director of the Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED), linked the rise in kidnapping to poverty, unemployment, and lack of good governance.
He called for a holistic approach to combat crime, emphasizing the need for effective governance that addresses the root causes of insecurity.
In response to the escalating kidnappings, the FCT Police Command has declared an unwavering commitment to fortifying security measures.
The command has deployed rigorous strategies to prevent abduction attempts, urging residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to enhance overall security. The Inspector-General of Police has also ordered the deployment of police officers and security equipment along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway to ensure the safety of travelers.
