Amid the surge in abduction-for-ransom incidents targeting residential estates in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and neighboring areas, Abuja-based real estate developer Dr. Sadiq Abdullahi voiced his support on Saturday for the adoption of community policing as a countermeasure.
In recent years, estates within the FCT and surrounding regions have increasingly faced attacks from armed groups who often bypass security systems to terrorize residents. Speaking to journalists, Dr. Abdullahi emphasized that community policing would be an effective tool to prevent these invasions but highlighted the need for collaborative agreements among key stakeholders—including the federal government and security agencies—before implementing localized security measures.
Abdullahi presented his views during the Bilaad Gem Hunt programme, an initiative for secondary schools organized as part of corporate social responsibility. He noted, “To address this security issue, the government, private sector, and security forces must recognize that there is no quick fix. Some of today’s security challenges stem from years of neglect.”
He referenced past practices where “Know Your Neighbor” policies were effective in identifying unfamiliar faces within communities, suggesting that the reintroduction of such measures could play a significant role in identifying potential threats. He remarked, “When I was young, new residents were required to introduce themselves to local community leaders and, if religious, their respective places of worship. This simple step helped track any unfamiliar or suspicious individuals.”
While he acknowledged the efforts of current security forces, Abdullahi suggested that a more proactive and community-centered approach could reduce crime.
Saturday’s Bilaad Gem Hunt concluded with Government Day Secondary School Karu taking first place, followed by Government Science Secondary School Maitama in second, and Kingsville Schools in third.
In January, FRONTPAGE reported on a similar incident where suspected kidnappers attacked the Nigerian Army Post Housing Scheme in Abuja’s Kurudu area, abducting two residents. Another case in May saw 20 Dawaki residents in the FCT abducted from their homes by armed men.
Three days ago, a nearby community in Niger State suffered a brutal assault by bandits, leaving 10 residents dead and multiple women attacked.
