Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, find themselves in a state of distress as the region, once known for its relative tranquility and security, grapples with an escalating wave of kidnappings.
The surge in cases has instilled a growing sense of fear and unease among the population, prompting urgent calls for authorities to take immediate action to restore safety and safeguard lives and property.
In a recent incident, the town of Dei-Dei, located off Kubwa-Zuba Road under Bwari area council in Abuja, witnessed the abduction of over 23 residents.
The perpetrators, reportedly dressed in military uniform, executed the operation discreetly, causing shock among the community members.
Subsequent incidents, including kidnappings at Gbaupe village and Arab Road residential area, have further heightened concerns about the deteriorating security situation in the capital.
The extent of the security challenges extends beyond Abuja, as incidents along the Kaduna-Abuja highways near Katari have resulted in abductions and loss of lives.
Despite these alarming developments, the response from authorities appears to be insufficient, with residents expressing frustration over the lack of effective measures to curb the growing insecurity concerns.
Throughout 2023, the FCT witnessed a distressing toll, with 36 people killed and 339 abducted from various communities.
Local residents, speaking out about their worries, emphasize the drastic shift from Abuja’s once peaceful reputation to a city marred by daily occurrences of criminal activities such as kidnapping, ‘one-chance’ incidents in public transportation, car snatching, and armed robberies.
Concerns about the rising kidnappings are echoed by diverse voices, including a Zuba-based trader, a traditional ruler in the FCT, a teacher, and other community members.
The lamentations highlight the need for immediate government intervention to address the security crisis and protect the lives and property of Abuja’s residents.
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and experts also weigh in on the situation, attributing the increased incidents to a lack of focus from the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, who is accused of being distracted by partisan politics in Rivers state.
They stress the importance of uniting security heads and community leaders to devise effective strategies for ensuring the safety of citizens in the nation’s capital.
In response to the escalating situation, the FCT Police Command and the Inspector-General of Police have pledged to implement rigorous security measures to prevent abductions.
The police emphasize the cooperation of residents in enhancing overall security, while also assuring their unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security in the Federal Capital Territory.
