Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, is experiencing a worrying spike in kidnappings, leaving many residents anxious and uncertain about their safety.

In the past week alone, over 30 people were abducted on the Abuja-Kaduna highway near Dogon-Fili, marking the first major incident on this road in nearly a year.

Meanwhile, in the Dutse-Alhaji area of Abuja, 10 residents were kidnapped when armed men disguised as soldiers stormed an estate during the evening hours.

As the rising cases of insecurity leave many Abuja residents on edge, a community member, Suleiman Ayomi shared his concern:

“We’re scared every day. Nobody knows who will be next. The government needs to step up and protect us.”

Another resident, Charles Obodo, voiced frustration: “It’s sad to see armed men roaming freely. We just want to feel safe in our homes again.”

Security experts have pointed to gaps in surveillance and law enforcement, such as the lack of routine checkpoints and proper profiling of residents in the city’s suburbs.

These shortcomings, combined with socio-economic challenges like unemployment and limited access to education, are believed to fuel the rising crime rates.

Dr. Jonathan Onoja Isaac, a security analyst, highlighted the issue: “Without robust systems to monitor who lives and moves in the city, Abuja remains vulnerable. We also need to address the root causes like poverty and illiteracy to tackle insecurity truly.”

As kidnappings become more frequent, many Abuja residents are pleading for urgent government action to restore security and peace to their communities.