The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed concern over the increasing wave of kidnappings in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
The group notes that Abuja, once considered one of the safest places in Nigeria, is now being dubbed the “kidnappers’ capital” due to frequent armed invasions of homes and abductions of residents.
HURIWA warns that if urgent actions are not taken to address the rise in sophisticated crimes in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), residents may resort to self-help measures, potentially leading to lynch mob actions against perceived criminals or the arming of citizens to protect their right to life.
The advocacy group calls on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike, to focus on implementing strong and effective measures to restore normalcy and security in the FCT.
HURIWA criticizes distractions caused by political conflicts, especially with allegations of disloyalty against the governor of Rivers state, and urges the minister to prioritize the security situation in Abuja.
The statement highlights the escalating kidnappings in Abuja since the inauguration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, with armed bandits and kidnappers targeting residents for ransom.
The group condemns the perceived incapacity and incompetence of security forces, particularly the FCT police command, in addressing the organized and sophisticated crimes.
HURIWA cites specific incidents, including the kidnapping of residents from Grow Home Estate in Kubwa and the recent abduction of 23 inhabitants in Dei-Dei village. The group emphasizes the need for intelligence-based strategies to combat the rising cases of crime in the FCT.
The statement also references Senator Ned Nwoko’s concern over the continuous captivity of his Senior Legislative Aide, Barrister Chris Agidy, and 18 others kidnapped in Galadimawa, Abuja.
The senator reports that 12 out of the 19 victims have allegedly been killed by the kidnappers, and efforts to negotiate their release have faced challenges.
HURIWA supports the Senate’s resolution calling for an investigation into the failed CCTV project in the FCT, expressing concern that billions of taxpayers’ funds were injected into the project without the installation of security facilities.
The group concludes by urging Minister Nyesom Wike to prioritize the fight against criminals, terrorists, and kidnappers in Abuja, suggesting that he may consider delegating internal political matters in Rivers state to focus on the security challenges in the FCT.
