Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is experiencing a worrying increase in armed robberies, with recent attacks in Asokoro and Guzape highlighting the extent of the security challenge. Despite the rising threat, the Nigerian Police Force appears to be downplaying the severity, and media coverage remains limited.
Residents report that armed robbers, numbering over 20 and wielding machetes and guns, have been conducting night raids on homes. The criminals, speaking Hausa, have been forcing entry into houses, stealing valuables such as electronics, cash, jewelry, and ATM cards, and inflicting serious injuries on their victims.
The latest attack occurred in Asokoro, notably on the same street where the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, resides. Despite the proximity to the minister’s residence, the robbers operated with impunity, moving from house to house and robbing residents without any police intervention. Reports indicate that the robbers targeted several locations, including Dadi’s Apartment and NEPA Office on Linda Chalker Street, right beside the AIT station.
Victims of the attacks have expressed frustration at the lack of police response during the incidents. Even police officers assigned to guard VIPs on the same street did not intervene. After the robbers left, injured victims sought medical help but were initially turned away by hospitals demanding police reports. In desperation, some victims approached the FCT Minister’s house for assistance but were denied access by his security detail, who stated that the minister was asleep.
This series of events underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures in Abuja, particularly as the incidents occurred close to high-profile residences. The situation calls for immediate action from the authorities to restore safety and public confidence in the capital’s security framework.
