Insecurity in Abuja: Reps Call Wike, DSS DG, Others to Account

Wike, DSS DG, Police Commissioner Summoned Over Abuja Security Concerns

“It has been a tumultuous and scary situation for people living within the capital territory...”

The House summons Minister Wike and security chiefs to provide solutions to Abuja's worsening insecurity, kidnappings, and 'one chance' attacks.

The House of Representatives has taken swift action to address the growing insecurity in Abuja by summoning key officials to appear before them. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) Oluwatosin Ajayi, and FCT Commissioner of Police Peter Opara are among those called to testify. They will be joined by representatives from other vital security agencies to provide a comprehensive overview of the situation.

The decision to summon these officials was made during a plenary session on Tuesday, October 22, after Haruna Dabo, representing the Toro Federal Constituency in Bauchi State, presented a motion of urgent public importance. This move underscores the lawmakers' commitment to finding solutions to the escalating insecurity in Abuja.

Officials Summoned:

Minister of FCT: Nyesom Wike

DSS Director General: Oluwatosin Ajayi

FCT Commissioner of Police: Peter Opara

The summoned officials will likely face questioning and provide updates on their efforts to address the security challenges in Abuja. This hearing aims to identify effective strategies to enhance security and protect citizens.

“It has been a tumultuous and scary situation for people living within the capital territory. The use of unregistered and unpainted taxis has further exacerbated the situation, providing an easy conduit for criminal activities within the capital city,” Dabo said.

The tragic incident involving Nimah Sulaiman, legislative aide to Haruna Dabo, has sparked urgent action to address Abuja's escalating insecurity. Sulaiman was kidnapped on October 17, 2024, by unknown assailants, who brutally stabbed her despite receiving a N1 million ransom, leading to her unfortunate demise.

This heartbreaking event prompted Dabo to express his deep concern about the surge in abductions and robberies plaguing both the city center and suburbs. He emphasized the growing threat posed by 'one chance' taxi operators, particularly those using unregistered and unpainted vehicles, which has significantly worsened the capital's security situation.

The 'one chance' robberies have become a major concern, with reports indicating that Abuja has experienced almost 50 kidnap cases involving over 200 individuals in the last three years. Residents are now demanding urgent action to restore safety and stability in the Federal Capital Territory.

Concerns:

Rising Kidnappings: Abuja ranked 11th in frequent abductions in 2020 

Increased Danger: 'One chance' taxi operators using unregistered vehicles

Economic Toll: Confirmed ransom payments totaled N653.7 million between 2021 and 2022 

Community Impact: Residents and businesses bearing the brunt of security challenges

The House of Representatives has taken decisive action, summoning key figures, including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, alongside heads of security agencies, for an emergency security briefing. This move aims to find effective solutions to the escalating insecurity in Abuja.

Lawmaker Haruna Dabo recently shared the heartbreaking story of his aide, Nimah Sulaiman, who fell victim to a tragic kidnapping and murder in Abuja. On October 17, 2024, Sulaiman was taken at gunpoint by 'one chance' operators at Bannex Junction, Wuse II, while on her way home to Jahi District. Despite the ransom being paid in full, her body was later found at the Maitama/Minister's Hill Bridge, just hours later.

This devastating incident highlights the escalating insecurity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), leaving residents in a state of constant fear. The 'one chance' robberies and kidnappings have become increasingly prevalent, with reports indicating over 200 individuals abducted in nearly 50 incidents across Abuja over the last three years. The economic toll is substantial, with confirmed ransom payments totaling N653.7 million between 2021 and 2022.

Residents are now demanding urgent action from authorities to address the security crisis. The community is navigating a complex landscape of emotions, practical considerations, and community-driven responses. Many are calling for investigations into security lapses and swift action against perpetrators. The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has deployed additional officers, but the continued incidents raise questions about the effectiveness of current measures.

Incidents and Statistics:

'One Chance' Robberies and Kidnappings: Over 200 individuals abducted in nearly 50 incidents across Abuja 

Economic Toll: Confirmed ransom payments totaling N653.7 million between 2021 and 2022 

Security Incidents: 13 recorded kidnap incidents, impacting 80 victims between October and December 2023 

Locations Affected: Gwagwalada Kuje, Lugbe, Pegi, Abaji, Keti, and Kwali

The House of Representatives paid tribute to the deceased with a moment of silence before taking decisive action to address Abuja's escalating insecurity. They instructed key committees to summon top officials, including the FCT Minister, Commissioner of Police, and Director General of the DSS, to provide a comprehensive report on the security challenges plaguing the city.

The House directed its Committee on FCT to investigate the proliferation of unregistered and unpainted taxis, which have become a breeding ground for 'one chance' operators, and recommend solutions to regulate their operations. This move aims to curb the growing threat posed by these taxis, which have been linked to numerous kidnappings and robberies.

A joint investigation by the Committees on FCT, Police Affairs, and National Security will delve into the activities of kidnappers and armed robbers within the FCT, with a detailed report expected within three weeks. This probe will shed light on the root causes of the insecurity and identify effective strategies to restore safety and stability in Abuja.

Actions Taken:

Summoning Key Officials: FCT Minister, Commissioner of Police, Director General of the DSS, and other stakeholders

Investigating Unregistered Taxis: Committee on FCT to probe proliferation and recommend regulatory solutions

Joint Investigation: Committees on FCT, Police Affairs, and National Security to investigate kidnappers and armed robbers

Report Deadline: Three weeks for the joint investigation report