By The House of Representatives has called for the appearance of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi, and the FCT Commissioner of Police, Peter Opara, alongside other key security stakeholders, to address the escalating insecurity in Abuja.
This decision was made following the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance raised by Haruna Dabo, representing the Toro Federal Constituency of Bauchi State, during Tuesday’s plenary. Dabo’s motion focused on the surge of “one chance” robberies, particularly the incident involving his legislative aide, Nimah Sulaiman, who was abducted and later killed despite the payment of a ransom.
Sulaiman was kidnapped by armed men on October 17, 2024, in Abuja. Despite a ransom of N1 million being paid, she was fatally stabbed by her captors. Dabo lamented the rise in kidnappings and robberies, emphasizing that both suburban and central areas of the FCT have become increasingly unsafe. He highlighted the growing trend of “one chance” operators, particularly using unregistered and unpainted taxis, which have contributed to the worsening security situation.
“It has been a frightening ordeal for residents in the capital city. The unchecked use of unregistered taxis has further fueled criminal activity,” Dabo said. He recounted the tragic fate of his aide, stating that Nimah Sulaiman was abducted at Bannex Junction, Wuse II, while on her way home and was found dead near Maitama after the ransom had been paid.
Following a minute of silence in honor of the deceased, the House instructed its Committees on FCT, Police, and National Security and Intelligence to summon key security officials for a detailed briefing on Abuja’s security situation. Furthermore, the House directed the FCT Committee to investigate the unregulated use of unregistered taxis in the city and recommend solutions. The committees are expected to submit a comprehensive report on the activities of kidnappers and armed robbers within three weeks.
