The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed concern about the rising cases of kidnapping in Abuja, which was once considered one of the safest places in Nigeria.
HURIWA in a statement by its national coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko predicted that if urgent measures are not implemented to curb this trend, residents may resort to taking matters into their own hands.
The group appealed to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to focus on his mandate and take action against these crimes instead of getting involved in political distractions.
HURIWA also reported an increase in armed kidnappings since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration began.
Reports indicate that armed bandits invade homes and kidnap residents for ransom before disappearing into the forests. Despite plans by officials to establish a joint task force made up of security forces from FCT and neighboring states, little progress has been made.
Recent incidents include an attack on Grow Home Estate where 15 residents were kidnapped earlier this year; seven months later, three more were taken from two different apartments after gunmen broke down a fence. In another incident in Dei-Dei village last weekend, 23 inhabitants were abducted with only seven rescued by vigilantes who trailed kidnappers into the bush.
Senator Ned Munir Nwoko also expressed concern over his Senior Legislative Aide being among those recently kidnapped; out of 19 individuals reportedly taken from their homes in Galadimawa area approximately two weeks ago, twelve have allegedly been killed while seven remain captive.
HURIWA supports Senate resolution requesting investigation into failed CCTV project initiated by past administration despite billions invested but no facilities installed exposing FCT to attacks by non-state actors.
The rights group questions why both ICPC and EFCC have ignored contract handed out for building formidable CCTV around nation’s capital when public funds may have been diverted by rogue contractors and officials.
Despite acknowledging Nyesom Wike’s capacity as former governor who fought criminals in Rivers state to a standstill, HURIWA urged him either to take leave or refocus away from internal politics towards combating terrorism and kidnapping within FCT itself.
