Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for swift security reforms following the alarming security breach at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) secretariat.

HURIWA noted that the recent invasion by suspected armed robbers, resulting in the burglary of vehicles and sensitive equipment, underscores the pressing need for effective security measures and comprehensive governance reforms in the FCT.

The group, in a statement on Monday by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, remarked that the audacious incursion at the heart of the FCTA secretariat raises urgent questions about the safety and well-being of residents and workers in the capital city.

“The brazen attack, which saw the theft of crucial vehicular components from vehicles parked in a high-security area, underscored a clear breakdown in security protocols and a failure of administrative oversight,” Onwubiko said.

He called on relevant authorities, including the FCT Administration, to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and hold accountable those responsible for this security lapse. The organization emphasized that the safety and security of residents and workers in the FCT should be an absolute priority; and immediate measures must be taken to prevent further incidents.

Highlighting that the recent spate of security breaches in the FCT, coupled with reports of unchallenged criminal activities in vital government departments, reflects a disturbing trend that demands a comprehensive review of security strategies, HURIWA urged the FCT Police Command to enhance its presence and responsiveness, ensuring that the city’s residents are protected, perpetrators of crime are brought to justice.

Moreover, HURIWA underscored the concerning state of governance within the FCT, emphasizing that effective governance was essential for providing public services and security and creating an environment conducive for growth and development. It added that allegations of corruption among top officials and the absence of clear governance direction are hindrances to the FCT’s potential progress.

Continuing, HURIWA echoed concerns regarding the FCT’s state of decline, citing years of inadequate governance direction and a troubling lack of accountability among officials. He highlighted glaring issues such as poor supervision, criminal negligence, inadequate policing, and a deficient transportation system.

While also revealing that housing challenges and unchecked landlord authority have further contributed to the city’s woes, HURIWA emphasized that the FCT’s ministerial position should be based on merit, not ethnicity, in order to restore effective leadership.

Therefore, HURIWA further called for a collaborative effort between all stakeholders, including the FCT Administration, security agencies, and civil society organizations, to address the multi-faceted challenges facing the FCT. “It is crucial to establish a governance framework that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and the welfare of the residents,” the group stated.

The group therefore urged the authorities to heed the calls for immediate action, ensuring that the FCT becomes a safe, secure, and thriving capital city for all its residents.

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