The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned a disturbing surge in “one chance” criminal attacks in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) following the killing of two professionals in separate incidents, raising fresh concerns about Abuja’s security.
The victims, Ms. Chinemerem Pascalina Chuwumeziem, a nurse, and Princess Chigbo Mediatrix, a lawyer and former Treasurer of the NBA Abuja Branch, were reportedly abducted by criminals posing as commercial transport operators. Their bodies were later discovered in different parts of the city.
In a statement obtained by The News Chronicle on Thursday, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, described the killings as “senseless and horrifying,” warning that insecurity is tightening its grip on the nation’s capital.
“These were not faceless victims. They were professionals and contributors to society whose only intention was to return safely from their daily engagements. Their deaths underscore a frightening reality that Abuja is becoming increasingly unsafe,” Osigwe said.
The NBA noted that the murder of Princess Mediatrix was especially painful for the legal community, describing her death as a professional and personal loss.
The association blamed a broader breakdown of security in the FCT, with criminal gangs boldly operating along major transport routes under the guise of commercial drivers.
It called on the FCT Minister, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies to declare a security emergency and take immediate action, including intelligence gathering, surveillance, and targeted operations.
The NBA also demanded thorough, transparent, and time-bound investigations into the killings, insisting that all perpetrators and collaborators be arrested and prosecuted.
“Justice must not only be promised. It must be delivered,” Osigwe said, urging decisive action to prevent Abuja from becoming a hunting ground for criminals.
