PUNCH
The Senate has told the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to revisit the $460m spent by the Federal Government on a Closed-Circuit Television project in the nation’s capital.
The Red Chamber took the position following recent incidents of kidnapping in the federal capital.
The Senate also asked the security agencies to probe the kidnappings in Abuja and its surroundings, with a view to bringing the perpetrators to book.
The resolutions followed a motion sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, on Wednesday
In 2010, the CCTV project was awarded to ZTE Corporation, a Chinese firm.
The contract involved a payment of 15 percent by the Federal Government and 85 per cent by the Chinese EXIM Bank – to be repaid within 10 years at the prevailing interest rate.
While moving his motion on the floor of the Senate, Nwoko said Chris Agidy, his senior legislative aide, was among 19 people kidnapped from their homes by gunmen in Galadimawa, a district in Abuja.
Nwoko said, “Approximately two weeks ago, a distressing incident unfolded where 19 individuals were forcefully taken from their homes in the Galadimawa area of Abuja.
“Upon receiving this distressing news, immediate measures were taken by Senator Ned Munir Nwoko whose SLA was unfortunately among. He contacted the Commissioner of Police who swiftly activated the OC Anti-Kidnapping team to secure the release of those abducted.
“Regrettably, we have received distressing updates from reliable police sources confirming that out of the 19 individuals abducted, 12 have been killed while seven remain in the custody of the kidnappers. Efforts to ascertain the well-being and status of our staff, Barrister Chris, among the seven individuals still held, are ongoing.
“From the onset, the senator has maintained close coordination with the security operatives who have been diligently working on this matter.
However, the challenges persist as contacting the kidnappers for negotiation has proven immensely difficult. Their lines remain inactive, hindering direct communication and negotiation efforts.
“According to the security operatives, efforts are still focused on securing the remaining individuals held captive from the forest area approximately 100 km away, despite the daunting challenges faced in reaching the kidnappers.
“As we await further updates from the authorities, we remain resolute in our pursuit of a swift and safe resolution to this distressing situation…
