In a resolute move against the surging threat of kidnappings in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has embarked on a series of confidence-building visits to Area Councils, starting with Bwari town. During a town hall meeting with residents, traditional rulers, and security personnel, Wike declared an end to the era of complacency, asserting that security agencies would intensify efforts to make it extremely challenging for bandits.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Wike emphasized that the recent attacks in Bwari had prompted a high-level security meeting summoned by President Muhammadu Buhari. Expressing the government's commitment to tackling the issue head-on, Wike stated, "It is no longer going to be business as usual." He announced presidential approval to provide the necessary resources to security agencies, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle the security challenges.
Wike's visit aimed to instill confidence in the community and send a clear message to criminals. Addressing the issue of informants, he warned, "You won't sleep again. This message is not just for Bwari but to all the Area Councils. From time to time, we will come here and interface with you. We won't sit down in the city."
The minister called on the public to actively assist security agencies by providing crucial information. He underscored the importance of traditional and community leaders in supporting these efforts. In a stern message directed at potential informants, Wike declared, "I am the Minister of FCT. You won't sleep again. Informants, you won't sleep again."
Wike also discouraged the practice of crowdfunding for ransom, noting that it inadvertently supports terrorists. He urged the public to resist contributing funds in response to kidnapping incidents, emphasizing the need to discourage criminals from exploiting such situations.
The chairman of the Bwari Area Council, John Gabaya, provided a grim overview of recent kidnapping incidents in the region, highlighting the severity of the situation. He appealed to Minister Wike for additional logistical support for security agencies, including vehicles, motorcycles, and regular fueling to enhance their effectiveness in combating the security challenges.
