In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, there is growing concern and unease among the residents due to a significant rise in insecurity, particularly in the city center and its outskirts. This has been marked by frequent and random incidents of robbery and abduction involving both motorists and commuters.

This surge in insecurity has led to a decline in the city’s nightlife, which is occurring as the country prepares to celebrate its 63rd independence anniversary. Many FCT residents have expressed their alarm at the increasing rate of kidnapping and robbery within the city center. They have pointed out that the FCT seems to be suffering from a shortage of policing, with very little visible law enforcement presence.

It’s common for motorists to traverse lengthy roads, such as Ahmadu Bello Way, without encountering a police patrol. The primary agencies on rapid patrol are the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and Vehicle Inspection Officers, but they are not equipped for security enforcement.

To illustrate the gravity of the situation, a journalist was recently abducted by criminals near the NNPC Towers, close to the Conoil petrol station, and taken to an undisclosed location where she was robbed of her belongings.

The security concerns have prompted the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to issue a memo to its staff, advising them about high-risk areas in the city, particularly during nighttime. The memo urges staff to use registered taxis and hail taxi cab services, avoid boarding vehicles on the road, and be cautious when assessing the safety of a taxi before boarding. It also advises against late evening or early morning trips and recommends taking safety measures such as winding up windows and locking doors while driving.

Notable areas in the FCT where criminals are active include Area 1 – Berger, Area 1 – Area 10, Area 1-Lugbe, Apo Mechanic Village axis, Kubwa Express Way, Jabi axis, City Gate, Areas 1 under bridge, Area 2 Plaza Behind VIO Office area, and Zone 2.

Residents are deeply concerned about the increasing insecurity and have called for swift measures to protect them from these criminals. Some attribute this surge in criminal activity to the prevailing economic hardship in the country.

One resident suggested that security agencies and the FCT Administration need to take immediate action to address the problem. Another resident noted that the influx of jobless individuals from various parts of the country into the capital city has exacerbated the situation. They emphasized the need for robust vigilante services or neighborhood watch programs to complement the efforts of the police.

Efforts should also be made to regulate transport services and streamline them to minimize the threat of “one-chance” criminals. Additionally, there is a call for the revival of the abandoned Close Circuit Camera project in key locations.

Security experts have highlighted the challenges faced by the police, including inadequate manpower and outdated equipment. They stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration and synergy among various security services.

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) expressed deep concern about the deteriorating security situation in the FCT, which has resulted in kidnappings, killings, and the disappearance of university students. They called on the authorities to take urgent action to safeguard the lives and well-being of residents.

HURIWA recommended various measures, including enhanced intelligence-driven operations, community engagement, increased visibility of law enforcement personnel, and improved coordination among security agencies. They also emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of criminality through social programs and urged political leaders to prioritize security.

The FCT Police Command has reassured residents to go about their lawful activities without fear, dismissing alarming warnings about insecurity as causing unnecessary panic and apprehension. They have emphasized their commitment to enhancing security in the region and urged residents to report suspicious activities through emergency lines.