Why Banditry, Kidnappings Increased In Abuja – Wike

The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike has revealed that the ongoing battle against banditry and kidnappings in Abuja metropolis is being hindered by insufficient equipment and operational vehicles.

According to him the scarcity of equipment to track criminals in some border communities of the FCT, has partly led to a surge in kidnappings.

Wike spoke during a chat with newsmen in Abuja on Monday.

He nevertheless, assured residents that the security challenges would soon be addressed, thanks to the approval for emergency procurement granted by President Bola Tinubu. He detailed that the approval specifically aimed at acquiring digital tracking tools and operational vehicles to enhance the capabilities of security forces in countering kidnappers.

Wike highlighted the existing deficiencies in the fight against banditry in Abuja, said: “So many facilities were not provided and vehicles for the security agencies are not there. You cannot believe that equipment to track criminals are not there, and when anything happens, security agencies go back to the Office of the National Security Adviser or to the Force Headquarters. That is not the way it is supposed to be.”

He emphasized the need for special equipment that would aid security agencies in reducing crime, especially tools to track specific locations of phone users. Wike clarified that the FCT Administration had identified the requirements of each security agency, and these would be addressed through the emergency procurement.

Addressing another shortfall in the fight against banditry in Abuja, Wike explained, “Before we came on board, the police had said that they had requested procurement of a certain number of motorcycles where vehicles cannot get to – the remote areas. Some of these areas are mountainous. Unfortunately, the motorcycles were not provided, but we have been able to do that now.”

Wike stressed the importance of motivation for security personnel, underscoring that personnel motivation is crucial for the success of security operations. Additionally, he disclosed plans to establish a Joint Task Force in the FCT with a full command and control structure, well-equipped to respond swiftly to security emergencies.

Concluding on the fight against banditry in Abuja, Wike acknowledged that while these initiatives might involve funds and time, addressing the identified gaps is imperative for comprehensive security coverage in the Federal Capital Territory.

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