Members of the Middle-Belt Youth Forum are set to stage a protest today in Abuja, condemning the increasing incidents of kidnapping in the region and the prevailing insecurity across the country. The demonstration, led by Forum President Brent Kane, will march peacefully to the Attorney-General of the Federation’s office, urging the designation of kidnappers and bandits as terrorists. This call comes on the heels of the recent arrest of 10 suspected bandits by the military.
The motivation behind the protest is fueled by the tragic incident in Sagwari Estate Layout, where 19 abductees, taken by bandits, remain in captivity. Among the victims, four have been killed, including Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar, a 400-level student of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and 13-year-old Folashade Ariyo. The remaining captives, including Nabeeha’s sisters, are still held, with demands for ransom reaching N60 million.
The Middle-Belt Youth Forum, in collaboration with Africa’s Morning Centre for Public Policy and Good Governance, aims to compel the government to invoke anti-terrorism laws. Forum President Brent Kane stressed that the kidnappers and bandits operate with a clear command and control structure, warranting their treatment as terrorists.
Meanwhile, in a tragic turn of events related to the Sagwari Estate incident, a hotel barman abducted alongside others has been reported killed by the kidnappers. The deceased’s identity is yet to be confirmed. The hotel staff, grappling with the situation, has faced ransom demands, further highlighting the urgent need for action.
In response to the security challenges, the Defence Headquarters reports the arrest of 10 suspected bandits in operations in the Federal Capital Territory. Major General Edward Buba assures ongoing efforts to locate and eliminate terrorists, emphasizing the military’s commitment to creating a safer environment.
President Bola Tinubu has convened an emergency meeting with service chiefs to address the security situation, issuing a directive to tackle the crisis. Tinubu vows relentless efforts until every “agent of darkness” fueling insecurity is eliminated. Meanwhile, South-South governors have scheduled a security meeting to discuss regional concerns.
Inspector-General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun has ordered intensified efforts to decimate insurgents nationwide, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory, emphasizing the commitment to national security.
