Fear and confusion gripped residents of Chikakore, a community in Kubwa, Abuja, on Sunday evening as gunmen stormed the area, abducting five residents and an entire family in a brazen attack. The incident occurred around 11 pm at the Health Centre extension axis of Chikakore, leaving the community shaken and desperate for increased security.
The Attack
According to eyewitness reports, the attackers, about five in number, arrived heavily armed and with clear intent. They targeted specific homes in the area, including that of Adesiyan Akinropo, a resident from the Southwestern part of Nigeria. The gunmen reportedly moved swiftly, bursting into homes, abducting their victims, and firing sporadically to instill fear among the residents.
One witness recounted the horrifying scene, stating, “We were already indoors when we heard gunshots. People were running and screaming. It felt like a nightmare.” The attackers, undeterred by the panic, spent several minutes carrying out their operation before fleeing into the night.
Impact on the Community
The kidnapping of five individuals and a family has left Chikakore residents in shock, with many now fearful for their safety. Previously considered a relatively peaceful area within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the attack has shattered the community’s sense of security.
Local residents expressed frustration over what they described as a slow response by law enforcement and called for immediate intervention to prevent further attacks. “We feel abandoned,” one resident lamented. “If this could happen here, then no one is safe anymore.”
Authorities’ Response
The FCT Police Command has confirmed the incident and assured the public that efforts are underway to rescue the abductees and apprehend the culprits. Speaking to the media, FCT Police Public Relations Officer SP Josephine Adeh stated, “Our operatives are working tirelessly to ensure the safe return of the victims and to bring the attackers to justice.”
However, some residents have criticized the perceived delay in security measures, urging the government to intensify patrols and deploy more officers to protect the community.
Rising Insecurity in the FCT
This attack highlights the growing issue of insecurity in Abuja and its surrounding areas. Once considered a safe haven compared to other parts of the country, the Federal Capital Territory has seen a troubling increase in cases of kidnappings, armed robberies, and other violent crimes in recent months.
Experts attribute this rise in crime to economic pressures and the activities of organized criminal groups, particularly in communities on the outskirts of Abuja like Chikakore. The dense forest areas near these communities provide cover for criminal elements, making it easier for them to launch attacks and evade capture.
Community Calls for Action
Residents of Chikakore and advocacy groups are calling on the government to prioritize security in the area. Proposals for community policing, better surveillance, and improved infrastructure have been made repeatedly, but many feel their concerns have not been adequately addressed.
A local community leader said, “The government needs to step up its game. We cannot continue living like this. People are scared to sleep at night, and our children are traumatized. We need immediate action to restore peace.”
The Way Forward
For now, the focus remains on rescuing the victims and preventing further incidents. Security agencies have urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with ongoing investigations.
The Chikakore community is left grappling with the reality of an increasingly volatile security situation, while many pray for the safe return of the abducted individuals. This attack underscores the urgent need for a robust and sustained effort to address the insecurity challenges facing Abuja and its environs.
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