In a decisive move to tackle the rising menace of kidnapping in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has given his approval for the emergency procurement of digital tracking tools.
The announcement was made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, during a media interface on Monday in Abuja.
Wike, without delving into specific details, highlighted the urgency of acquiring advanced equipment to effectively combat kidnapping.
He stated, “So many facilities were not provided. Vehicles for the security agencies are not there. You cannot believe that equipment to track criminals are not there.”
The minister disclosed that informants recently apprehended by security agencies are cooperating and providing actionable intelligence. He mentioned that this information has already led to the arrest of some kidnappers.
“The information I have is that the discussion is still ongoing, and we are praying and hoping that it will end well and they will be released in no time,” Wike commented.
Highlighting the impact of specific tracking equipment, Wike drew on his experience as the Governor of Rivers state.
He stated, “When I was the Governor of Rivers state, the DSS told me they wanted a particular equipment. We were the only state that had it then. In fact, sometimes the headquarters asked for its use. That is a special equipment they needed and that equipment, we know how expensive it is but we had it and that was able to help us reduce the level of crime.”
Wike assured the public that the lack of adequate equipment in the past would no longer hinder security measures.
He stated, “With the approval of Mr President, giving us approval for emergency procurement, we have been able to identify what each of the agencies need, and we will be able now to provide them.”
In response to concerns about security in the Federal Capital Territory, Wike mentioned the establishment of a Joint Task Force with a full command and control structure.
He also addressed the issue of informants, stating, “The efforts of our security agencies have yielded the arrests of informants who have told us what they were planning… All we can assure you is that you don’t need to panic. Everything is being done to ensure the protection of lives and property.”
The emergency procurement of tracking equipment is regarded as a significant step forward in enhancing security measures and responding effectively to the challenges posed by kidnapping in the Federal Capital Territory.