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Insecurity unsettles Abuja ahead Independence anniversary

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Why I may not hesitate to support Peter Obi in 2027 – Atiku Abubakar

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The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar, has suggested he might support Peter Obi, his Labour Party counterpart from the last election, in 2027.

The former Vice President, currently in merger talks with stakeholders from various opposition political parties, indicated he would back Obi if the Labour Party nominates him for the next election.

According to The Sun, Atiku made this statement during an interview with BBC Hausa Service.

It was recently reported by DAILY POST that Obi and Atiku had a closed-door meeting, sparking rumors about a potential merger of opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku confirmed the efforts of opposition parties to align in order to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 election, saying, “We can merge to achieve a common goal. So, it’s possible and nothing can stop it if we so wish to achieve that.”

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Atiku added that if the new party decides it’s the turn of the South-East and chooses Peter Obi, he would not hesitate to support him.

“I have said repeatedly, and even before the 2023 general elections, that if the PDP decides to zone the presidential ticket to the South or South-East specifically, I won’t contest it.

“But I contested the 2023 presidential ticket because it was open to all members of the party,” Atiku explained.

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I once struggled with pornography – Bishop Oyedepo’s son, Isaac

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Isaac Oyedepo, son of Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church, has admitted to having struggled with pornography at one point in his life.

Isaac revealed that he became involved with pornography during a trip to a European country.

Speaking on the podcast “Confession Box,” Isaac shared that he overcame this challenge with God’s help.

He explained: “My confessions are positive and meant to help others. I struggled with pornography before.

“I remember how it began; we traveled to a country, and I was alone in my room. I turned on the TV, and that’s how it started.

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“But God helped me overcome it quickly. Many people still struggle with it, and I think if someone who had previously struggled with it had approached me and showed me how to break free, I would have overcome it sooner.

“Some topics are often avoided, but today, many pastors and church members still struggle with this issue.

“You might be anointed and performing signs and wonders, but that doesn’t mean you are living right.

“There’s an old saying that if it works, it means you’re standing right, but I found out that’s not always true. There were times I realized I wasn’t right, but grace and mercy found me.

“For the sake of someone genuine in the congregation, God can bypass you to reach that person; this is my confession.”

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Alleged Corruption: Rights lawyer petitions Minister, seeks suspension of NSCDC CG, Audi

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Former Special Prosecutor for the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for Recovery of Public Properties, Tosin Ojaomo, has petitioned the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, regarding an ongoing investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into corruption allegations against Ahmed Audi, the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Ojaomo recommended Audi’s immediate suspension to ensure public safety and protect the integrity of the investigation from possible interference.

The petition, dated May 15 and made available to DAILY POST, was addressed to Tunji-Ojo and copied to President Bola Tinubu, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi, and EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede.

Ojaomo highlighted that the EFCC has been investigating the NSCDC for alleged financial mismanagement, making significant progress. He also mentioned a pending allegation against Audi regarding unexplained property acquisition filed with the Code of Conduct Bureau (CBB).

Ojaomo’s request is based on Section 8 of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Act, 2003 (as amended), and Section 11 of the Interpretation Act, 2004, which allow the minister to recommend the appointment and removal of the NSCDC Commandant General.

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The petition stated, “We are compelled to make this request as the investigation of the agency cannot be thoroughly and discreetly conducted if the current Commandant General of the NSCDC is allowed to continue in office while the investigation continues because most of the financial activities of the agency which form the subject matter of the investigation are conducted under the current CG’s watch.”

He further emphasized that the suspension would safeguard the investigation process and prevent possible interference. Ojaomo cited allegations linking Audi to a company, Keltes Security and Consultancy Limited, which allegedly received contracts from Tantita Security Limited, a company under the NSCDC’s supervision.

He concluded, “In view of these facts, it will be in the interest of public safety and to protect the integrity of the office to suspend Dr. Abubakar Audi, the current Commandant General of NSCDC, so that the EFCC can conduct a thorough and discreet investigation into the matter.”

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