Wike establishes security committee to tackle Almajiri influx in FCT

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has directed the establishment of a high-powered security committee to tackle the growing influx of Almajiri and other individuals deemed potential security risks into the nation’s capital.

This decision was announced after an expanded security meeting held on Tuesday with Area Council Chairmen and top security officials.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the FCT Commissioner of Police (CP), Olatunji Disu, outlined the committee’s mandate, emphasising its role in identifying and profiling informal Almajiri schools and their organisers.

“A lot of issues regarding security were discussed, but we mainly focused on the influx of people into the FCT, especially the Almajiri,” Disu said. “The Minister has directed us to set up a committee, and we are expected to submit our findings in two weeks.”

The committee comprises representatives from key security agencies, including the Nigerian Police, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). It will collaborate with Area Council Chairmen to identify schools where Almajiri children are being taught, profile their organisers by collecting personal details such as pictures and phone numbers, and assess the curriculum being provided.

The Commissioner revealed that recent operations had led to the arrest of five individuals suspected of posing security threats within the FCT. “Recently, some arrests have been made of persons who are a security risk to the Federal Capital Territory,” Disu stated. Investigations are ongoing, and further details will be shared with the public soon.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals in their neighbourhoods. “We enjoin all residents of the FCT to be security conscious and take note of any new persons coming into their areas. If you see anything suspicious, quickly inform the security authorities,” he advised.

Disu stressed that the initiative aims to prevent potential threats before they escalate. “We don’t want to wait for anything to happen. We want to be proactive,” he said. The committee will also explore how the government can regulate these informal schools and ensure their operations align with national security interests.

Residents were reassured that there is no immediate cause for alarm. “The town is calm. There is nothing to be worried about or concerned about,” Disu added.

The Quality Assurance Unit of the FCTA Education Secretariat will work alongside the committee to evaluate the quality of education being provided in these informal learning centres. This collaboration emphasises the administration’s commitment to addressing both educational and security concerns.

As Abuja continues to experience an influx of people from various regions, authorities have intensified surveillance efforts across the territory. The Minister’s directive reflects a broader strategy to safeguard lives and property while maintaining peace in Nigeria’s capital.

Residents are encouraged to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies as they implement these measures aimed at ensuring a secure environment for all.