In response to the alarming surge in kidnappings, the Senate has summoned the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igwe.
This comes after the abduction and tragic murder of Chris Agidy, an aide to Senator Ned Nwoko, in the Galadimawa area of Abuja in November 2023.
Senator Nwoko, deeply affected by the incident, sponsored a motion leading to the Senate’s resolution.
The Red Chamber demanded the FCT Minister and the Police Commissioner to provide insights into the escalating kidnapping cases within Nigeria’s capital.
Following an intense debate, the Senate mandated the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to enhance security patrols nationwide.
Additionally, the installation of CCTV cameras along Abuja highways and the establishment of a three-digit emergency number for swift police response were directed.
In a bid to bolster emergency services, the Nigerian Communications Commission was tasked to ensure the functionality of dedicated emergency numbers for the police, ambulance, and fire services.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating that both the FCT Minister and the Police Commissioner would meet with the Senate in a closed-door session. The aim is to discuss the measures and strategies in place to combat the growing threat of kidnappings not only in the FCT but across Nigeria.
Akpabio concluded, “Incidences like the kidnapping and killing of Senator Nwoko’s Senior Legislative Aide and other residents are worrisome and must be stopped, not only in the FCT but also in Nigeria generally.”
