The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), following the abduction of a family and others by suspected bandits in the Chikakore area of Kubwa in the early hours of Monday. The association condemned the attack in the strongest terms, describing it as evidence of a growing security vacuum in the nation’s capital.

The abduction reportedly took place at about midnight when over 30 gunmen, armed with AK-47 rifles, invaded the residence of one Mr. Adefija Michael Akinropo, abducting him, his wife, son, and elder brother. The attackers also targeted a nearby poultry farm, kidnapping one man and injuring his wife in the process. Despite the gravity of the situation, no official statement has been made by the FCT Police Command as of the time of this report.

HURIWA criticized the apparent lack of urgency and effective strategy in addressing the escalating insecurity in the FCT. The association called on FCT residents to petition President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to prioritize the safety and well-being of the territory’s inhabitants and ensure that the nation’s capital does not descend further into chaos.

The rights group condemned what it described as misplaced priorities by the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike. According to HURIWA, the minister appears more preoccupied with political battles in his home state of Rivers and controversial urban remodeling projects in Abuja, rather than addressing the mounting insecurity that threatens lives and properties in the capital.

“It is appalling and unacceptable that the FCT, the seat of Nigeria’s government, is becoming a war zone for terrorists and kidnappers. The primary responsibility of any government is to protect lives and property while ensuring the welfare of its citizens, as enshrined in Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). Unfortunately, this constitutional obligation is being flagrantly disregarded in Abuja,” the statement from HURIWA read.

The association highlighted the direct link between the growing insecurity in the FCT and the political distractions of its leadership. “While Abuja residents are grappling with the constant fear of abductions and attacks, the FCT minister is more concerned with arbitrary land allocations, the removal of roads in the central business district for remodeling, and settling political scores in Rivers State. This political treachery and incompetence are unacceptable,” HURIWA added.

HURIWA warned that the unchecked rise in insecurity within the FCT is a direct affront to the rights of citizens to safety and well-being. “Insecurity in the FCT has reached alarming levels, with armed bandits terrorizing communities and threatening the lives of residents. This failure of governance is a gross infringement on the fundamental rights of Nigerians living in the capital,” the group stated.

The association called for a comprehensive and immediate overhaul of the security architecture in the FCT. It urged the federal government to deploy more resources to intelligence gathering and community-based policing, as well as ensure the accountability of security agencies tasked with maintaining law and order.

HURIWA also encouraged FCT residents to organize peaceful petitions and demonstrations to demand action from the government. “The civil society community, alongside well-meaning Nigerians, must rise and demand an end to the reign of terror in Abuja. We must hold the government accountable for its constitutional duties,” the statement read.

The association further called on President Tinubu to take immediate steps to restore security in the FCT by issuing clear directives to security agencies and holding those responsible for lapses accountable. It also demanded that the President remind the FCT minister of his primary responsibility to safeguard the lives and properties of Abuja residents.

“Let it be clear that the federal government cannot afford to let Abuja, the seat of power and symbol of Nigeria’s unity, become a haven for criminals and terrorists. Leadership must demonstrate competence, vision, and a clear commitment to the protection of the people,” HURIWA concluded.

The association urged residents of the FCT to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and report suspicious activities while reiterating its commitment to advocating for the rights and safety of Nigerians across the country.