Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has maintained that the crime rate in Abuja has dropped considerably.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Wike addressed public anxiety over recent violent incidents, including the killing of Somtochukwu Maduagwu, an Arise Television journalist, in Katampe late September.
Somtochukwu, affectionately known as Sommie, was laid to rest on 18 October in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Responding to claims that the city is facing a surge in crime, Wike challenged reporters to provide data backing such assertions.
“So when you talk about spikes, what are the statistics?” he asked. “Just because a colleague of yours was involved, then you say there’s a spike. You have no statistics.”
He added that it is the duty of security agencies to safeguard lives and property irrespective of victims’ professions.
“It is our responsibility to protect lives and property, not about who is involved, whether it’s an Arise TV person or Channels,” he said.
While acknowledging security challenges in the capital, the minister commended the performance of security operatives.
“Security agencies have done well. The rate of crime in Abuja has drastically reduced. That does not mean you cannot see crimes being committed,” he said.
He added that crime is a universal issue, but efforts to tackle it in the FCT remain effective.
“All over the world, anytime you wake up, crime is being committed here and there, but that does not mean security agencies are not tackling it,” Wike stated.
