Perturbed by the rising spate of insecurity in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, the Executive Director of Eze Patience Foundation (EPF Nigeria), Eze Patience Nnedinso, has urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in Abuja.
The activist, who is equally the Director of Gender, Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security & Safety Affairs FCT, (CONYSSA), expressed her concern over the level of insecurity that has bedevilled Abuja recently.
She decried that women, girls and children have been worst hit by the steady rise in crime within the FCT.
A statement she made available to newsmen in Abuja, read: “Yesterday, we received the shocking news of the gruesome murder of one of YALI Abuja network member, Greatness Olorunfemi who met her untimely death in the hands of the infamous ‘one chance’ operators.
“The case of Olorunfemu is just one out of many cases that we have recorded in the city centre. It leaves us with the question of who will be the next victim?
“It is no longer news that residents of Abuja, can not sleep with their eyes closed due to the prevailing insecurity issues.
“I, therefore, want to urge President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, and the appropriate security agencies to take drastic measures towards ensuring the protection of lives of Abuja residents, even if it warrants the declaration of a State of Emergency.”
She noted that CONYSSA had on September 21, hosted a Youth Stakeholders Security Summit to commemorate the International Day of Peace.
“During this event, reports from the Stakeholders showed that issues bordering on insecurity in different communities within the FCT are gradually getting out control.
“Kidnappings for ransom have become a lucrative business, with victims being held captive until significant sums of money are paid.
“Undoubtedly, the rising insecurity in Abuja, has significant impact on the image and wellbeing of the city and its residents; the economy; and the overall development of the country.
“It undermines the sense of safety and security, hamper economic activities, and deters investment and tourism.
“The government, security agencies and stakeholders need to make concerted effort to address these security challenges in Abuja.
“The government should as a matter of urgency, increase police presence, invest in better equipment and training for security forces, and strengthen intelligence gathering and sharing mechanisms.
“There should be close collaboration and coordination among different security agencies at the federal, state, and local levels.
“Information sharing, joint operations, and intelligence cooperation are crucial in combating the rising insecurity.
“Engaging with local communities is essential to address the root causes of insecurity. This involves building trust, promoting dialogue, and addressing grievances that contribute to violence and criminal activities.
“The government should ensure that perpetrators of crimes are apprehended, prosecuted, and punished appropriately.
“Other measures must include the enhancement of the capacity of the judiciary as well as addressing of issues of corruption and impunity.
“Tackling the socio-economic factors that contribute to insecurity, such as; poverty, unemployment, and inequality, is crucial.
“Implementing programs that address these underlying issues can reduce the likelihood of individuals engaging in criminal activities.
“Addressing the rising insecurity in Abuja requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach.
“It is essential to prioritize the safety and security of the city’s residents and to create an environment conducive to economic development and prosperity,” she added.
