Schools across Kubwa in the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), abruptly closed on Friday, amid widespread panic over rumours that commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as ‘okada’ riders, were plotting a violent attack on the FCT task force.
The chaos began after a voice note circulated on social media on Thursday, alleging that ‘okada’ riders planned to retaliate against the task force following recent raids in the Kubwa and Dutse areas that led to the seizure of numerous motorcycles.
Fears were heightened as reports emerged that the task force, during the operations, allegedly conducted house-to-house searches, confiscating motorcycles, including some not actively in operation.
The task force has also been accused of extortion and of selling seized motorcycles without the knowledge or approval of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
When journalists visited schools in the area, including Government Secondary School (GSS), Kubwa, Foothold Academy, Merosa, and Apearl Premier Private School in Phase 4, parents were seen hastily picking up their children.
Related Articles:
- FG sets up powerful task force to curb building collapses in Nigeria
- Civilian Joint Task Force arrest 26 kidnap suspects in Kogi
- Illegal Task Force Operators take over Abakaliki city, residents raise alarm
In response to the security concerns, the FCT Police Command, through its spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, issued a warning to the ‘okada’ riders, describing any planned attack as criminal and assuring residents that law enforcement is fully prepared to maintain peace.
“Any person or group involved in planning, instigating, or contemplating carrying out any form of violent protest or attack on any law enforcement officials, under whatever guise, is hereby sternly warned to immediately abort such plans,” Adeh stated.
She added that the police would not hesitate to deploy all lawful means, including arrests, prosecution, and the use of necessary force, to deal with anyone found threatening public order.
Residents were also advised not to panic at the sight of increased police presence in and around Kubwa, as the deployment is a proactive measure to prevent any breach of peace.
