The alarming rise of “one-chance” criminal operations in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, has prompted activist and Afro-pop singer, Ayokanmi Eyanro, known professionally as Frequencie, to call upon the Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA) to embrace technological solutions in combating this escalating menace. “One-chance” refers to a criminal tactic where unsuspecting commuters board seemingly legitimate commercial vehicles, only to find themselves trapped and robbed, often violently, by criminals posing as drivers and passengers. Eyanro’s appeal underscores the growing concern over the safety and security of Abuja residents, particularly those reliant on public transportation. He emphasizes the urgent need for collaborative action involving government bodies, civil society organizations, and law enforcement agencies to effectively address this threat and restore public trust.
Eyanro commended the efforts of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and the non-governmental organization “Abuja PR” for raising awareness regarding the surge in “one-chance” attacks. Acknowledging their contributions to highlighting the issue, Eyanro stresses that awareness campaigns alone are insufficient to curb this growing problem. He advocates for a multi-pronged approach that goes beyond simply informing the public about the dangers. He suggests that tangible, proactive measures must be implemented to effectively protect citizens and deter criminals. This proactive approach should involve leveraging technology to enhance surveillance, improve vehicle tracking, and ultimately make it more difficult for criminals to operate within the city.
Central to Eyanro’s recommendations is the strategic implementation of technology. He specifically calls for the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras along major roads and thoroughfares. This surveillance infrastructure, he argues, would provide vital visual data to monitor traffic flow, identify suspicious activities, and potentially capture evidence of criminal acts in progress. This constant surveillance could serve as a deterrent to criminals and provide valuable support to security personnel in their investigative efforts. He further proposes mandatory digital registration of all vehicles operating within the FCT. This digital database would streamline the process of identifying and tracking vehicles involved in criminal activities, enabling faster response times and enhancing the efficiency of law enforcement operations.
Recognizing the economic pressures that contribute to commuters’ vulnerability to “one-chance” schemes, Eyanro highlights the impact of rising transportation costs following the removal of fuel subsidies. He points out that criminals often exploit these financial difficulties by offering deceptively low fares to lure unsuspecting individuals into their traps. To mitigate this risk, he proposes the introduction of affordable mass transit options. By making safe and affordable transportation readily accessible, the appeal of these potentially dangerous, cheaper alternatives offered by criminals would be significantly reduced. This initiative, he argues, is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents, especially those most affected by economic hardship.
Beyond advocating for government intervention, Eyanro also urges Abuja residents to be proactive in safeguarding their own safety. He advises them to prioritize their security by patronizing only government-certified motor parks. These regulated transportation hubs offer a greater degree of oversight and accountability compared to informal pick-up points, thereby reducing the risk of encountering “one-chance” operators. By choosing regulated transportation services, commuters can significantly minimize their exposure to these criminal elements and contribute to a safer commuting environment. This emphasis on individual responsibility complements the call for broader systemic solutions.
In essence, Eyanro’s appeal reflects a growing demand for decisive action against the “one-chance” menace in Abuja. His recommendations combine a call for technological advancements in security infrastructure with a focus on affordable transportation and individual vigilance. By addressing both the systemic factors that enable these crimes and empowering citizens to protect themselves, Eyanro’s approach aims to create a safer and more secure environment for all Abuja residents. His appeal represents a crucial step towards tackling this serious security challenge and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. The underlying message is that a multi-faceted approach, combining technology, policy, and public awareness, is the most effective way to combat this form of urban crime.
