The House of Representatives on Tuesday expressed concern over the increasing cases of “one chance” criminal operations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), condemning the growing insecurity in the nation’s capital.
During its plenary session, the House directed relevant committees to engage the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, the FCT Police Commissioner, and the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to address the alarming situation.
This action followed the tragic killing of Miss Nimah Sulaiman by “one chance” operators on Thursday, October 17, 2024. The resolution was prompted by a motion of urgent national importance, sponsored by Ismail Haruna Dabo, whose Legislative Aide, Miss Sulaiman, was the victim.
In addition, the House mandated its Committee on FCT to investigate the use of unregistered and unpainted taxis within the capital city, along with a broader investigation into the activities of kidnapping and armed robbery. The committee is expected to report its findings within three weeks.
Dabo, who represents Toro Federal Constituency of Bauchi State, expressed deep concern over the surge in kidnappings and robbery incidents, particularly by “one chance” operators. He lamented the escalating insecurity in the FCT, from kidnappings in remote suburbs to abductions in the city center and estates. The rise of unregistered and unpainted taxis, he said, has exacerbated the situation, providing criminals with a means to carry out their activities with ease.
He recounted the tragic case of Miss Sulaiman, who was kidnapped at gunpoint at Bannex Junction, Wuse 2, while on her way home to Jahi District around 6:15 pm. Despite paying the ransom in full, her life was cut short, and her body was discovered between 9 and 10 pm at the Maitama/Minister’s Hill Bridge.
Dabo stressed that this heinous crime has sent shockwaves through the community, underscoring the worsening security situation in the FCT. He emphasized the responsibility of lawmakers to ensure the safety and security of citizens.
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