Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reassured locals that there is no need for concern in light of the recent spike in kidnapping instances in Abuja.
Wike made this statement to reporters on Tuesday following a meeting with a few heads of security in the Federal Capital Territory.
Wike acknowledged the difficulties and told the populace not to worry since the administration was taking action to resolve the unpleasant situation.
“All of us are aware of the security situation in FCT, particularly in Bwari and some other areas that we have witnessed security challenges,” he said.
“Yes, I am aware that sometimes too, the press overblows what is happening, but all of us are concerned and we owe a duty to make sure that FCT is safe.
“We will do all we can, and we assure Nigerians who reside here that there is no need for panic. We are taking every step to make sure that the challenges are resolved.”
He said this in response to recent kidnappings in the FCT.
On January 5, armed individuals invaded a neighbourhood in Abuja’s Bwari area council, kidnapping numerous individuals, including a household consisting of six sisters.
Nabeeha, one of the six sisters, was killed by the kidnappers on Sunday, allegedly as a message to the family for not providing the N60 million ransom.
He stated that because the chairmen of the six area councils are also accountable for maintaining peace and security in their respective regions, the meeting was extended to include them.
“So, we will put our heads together to come up with solutions; we are not sleeping, the security agencies are not sleeping, we will provide every support that they require to allay the fears of the residents,” he said.
Wike disapproved on the area council chairmen’s frequent trips in the aftermath of recent abductions.
“This time around, we will not be happy where area council chairmen will abdicate their responsibilities and travel out”.
“We have gotten reports that the council chairmen travel any time, and if anything happens, they will not call anybody’s name but the FCT minister’s,” he added.
“So, council chairmen should know that they must wake up to their responsibilities. It is not everything that happens people will say that the ministers are not taking steps.”
