Safer Abuja Initiative Calls for Urgent Collective Action to Tackle Rising Security Concerns

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Safer Abuja Initiative has sounded a clarion call to all concerned parties, urging them to join forces in addressing the alarming surge in security challenges that threaten the safety of residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and its surroundings.

In a statement released by the Coordinator of the Safer Abuja Initiative, Chè Oyinatumba, the current security situation in Abuja is depicted as critical, with an upswing in criminal activities such as car thefts, armed robberies, and ‘one-chance’ crimes extending beyond the city center into satellite towns. Disturbing statistics from 2023 reveal a toll of 36 lives lost and 339 individuals abducted in various communities within the territory.

The Safer Abuja Initiative implores all stakeholders to endorse the statement and actively contribute to the collective effort aimed at restoring security and peace to the nation’s capital. Key messages include calls to the President, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Ministers of Defence, Police Affairs, and Interior, Chairs of the 6 Area Councils, Defence and Security Forces, and Lawmakers Representing the FCT in the National Assembly.

The specific appeals range from prioritizing security concerns, deploying increased personnel and advanced technologies, to implementing comprehensive security measures, community policing initiatives, and legislative measures supporting enhanced security efforts.

To endorse the initiative, stakeholders are urged to reply to the email with their name, title, and organization. Additionally, they are encouraged to share the statement on their respective platforms to facilitate broader endorsement.

The Safer Abuja Initiative emphasizes the importance of unity against insecurity, calling for the amplification of voices, mounting pressure on relevant authorities, and active contribution to creating a safer environment. The government and relevant authorities are urged to fulfill their obligation of providing security and welfare to the people.

Together, through collective action, stakeholders can overcome the pressing security challenges faced by Abuja and contribute to the restoration of peace and safety in the region.