End spate of robberies In Keffi, Nasarawa State

Like a viral disease, there have been a surge in violent crimes in Keffi, Keffi Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria. Ordinarily, the calmness and security enjoyed by Abuja, Nigeria’s capital should rub off on nearby states. Unfortunately, this have not being the case. In the last 30 days, youth restiveness in Keffi […]

Like a viral disease, there have been a surge in violent crimes in Keffi, Keffi Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria. Ordinarily, the calmness and security enjoyed by Abuja, Nigeria’s capital should rub off on nearby states. Unfortunately, this have not being the case.
In the last 30 days, youth restiveness in Keffi and environs have leaped. Violent crimes often committed by adequately armed youth gangs have increased. These have threatened the peace of society as it is suddenly very common for a small group of at least 10 youngmen, armed with guns and knives to engage in stealing. So regular is this occurence that residents for fear of being killed are constrained to in mass seek accomodation elsewhere where their lives are secure. Already, as much as 10 successful robbery operations have been recorded.
Recently, in Angwan Tanko, a sleepy county in Keffi, three robberies happened in one month till September 12th. There was massive shootings as hoodlums vandalized properties whilst carting away plenty cash and other valuables. The local Police did not show up despite distress calls to the switch board. Local residents suggest they took to hiding because of lack of capacity to confront the thieves. Even if they dared, the remarkably bad nature of the roads around the town would have been perfect ambush against them. The thieves, lying in wait will simply kill them!
It is the primary role of every government to protect its citizens. Residents of Keffi must enjoy this responsibility of government towards them.
Omaga E. Daniel is a social activist