The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and security agencies to declare a state of emergency over the rising cases of “one-chance” robberies in Abuja. This follows the recent murder of a nurse, Chinemerem Chuwumeziem, and a senior legal practitioner, Princess Chigbo Mediatrix, by one-chance operators in the Federal Capital Territory.
FIDA made the call during a press conference, where they condemned the killings and expressed concern over the growing insecurity in the FCT. The association’s chairperson, Mrs. Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, stated that the incident is part of a disturbing pattern of one-chance operations that have continued unabated despite public outcry and media reports.
The group is urging the FCT minister to establish a taskforce dedicated to dismantling the criminal networks and prioritize the installation of functional CCTV surveillance along major transport corridors and identified hotspots. They also called for the regulation and sanitization of commercial transportation, including clear identification, registration, and monitoring of public and informal transport operators.
Furthermore, FIDA is calling on security agencies, including the police, Department of State Service, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, to embark on intelligence-driven patrols, stop-and-search operations, and covert surveillance along known one-chance routes. The association stressed that perpetrators and their collaborators should be promptly arrested, investigated, and prosecuted.
The judiciary has also been urged to ensure speedy disposition of cases arising from these crimes, to ensure justice is served and perpetrators are deterred. Onyenucheya-Uko emphasized that the safety of citizens is a constitutional obligation and that FIDA will continue to engage, advocate, and demand accountability until concrete steps are taken to end the menace.
The killing of a senior legal practitioner and a nurse has sent a chilling message to residents, especially women and vulnerable commuters, who already navigate public spaces under constant threat. FIDA’s call for action aims to address the growing insecurity in the FCT and ensure that citizens can move safely without fear of abduction, assault, or murder. The association’s efforts seek to hold authorities accountable for providing a safe environment for all citizens.
