Kidnapping: Wike Vows to Make Abuja Hot for Criminals, Urges Public Support

Minister of FCT visits area councils to address rising cases of kidnappings

The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has embarked on confidence-building visits to area councils in Abuja, pledging to make the city "hot" for bandits involved in the incessant kidnappings and killings of innocent victims. Wike's visit follows a series of attacks by bandits in the area.

During his visit to Bwari town, the headquarters of Bwari Area Council, Wike held a town hall meeting with residents, traditional rulers, security personnel, and other stakeholders. This visit is part of his planned engagements with other councils in the coming days.

Expressing his determination to tackle the security challenges, Wike declared that enough is enough, and those working as informants for the bandits would no longer be able to live among decent residents. He emphasized that security is a top priority for President Muhammadu Buhari's administration and that immediate action would be taken to ensure the safety of lives and property.

Wike assured the community that the government is serious about addressing the situation, stating that Mr. President had approved the provision of all necessary resources to the security agencies. He acknowledged the size of Bwari and its borders with three states - Niger, Kaduna, and Nasarawa - which make it vulnerable to attacks as bandits move from the Northeast.

The minister stated, "Security agencies will not have any reason to say they are not equipped; we will provide everything required. We will make it hot for them." He also called on the public, especially traditional and community leaders, to assist the security agencies by providing vital information.

Wike warned potential informants within the meeting hall and across the area councils, stating, "I don't care who you are. I don't care. You won't sleep again. Informants, you won't sleep again." He emphasized the importance of information in combating the menace of kidnapping and assured the public of imminent action from the security agencies.

The minister also discouraged the practice of resorting to crowdfunding to raise funds for ransom, as it inadvertently supports the activities of terrorists and encourages further attacks. He urged the community to find alternative ways to discourage kidnappers and work together to restore peace and security.

In his remarks, the chairman of Bwari Area Council, John Gabaya, highlighted several recent attacks in the area, including the violent assault on Tokulo community, the killing of two individuals in Kuduru, and the abduction of residents in Zuma village and other locations.

Wike's visit and strong stance against kidnappings demonstrate the government's commitment to tackling the security challenges facing Abuja. With the provision of necessary resources to security agencies and the public's support in providing information, it is hoped that the menace of kidnapping will be curbed, leading to a safer and more secure environment for residents of the FCT and surrounding areas.