The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has reaffirmed its support for community policing and called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, the media and other stakeholders to tackle the persistent threat of “one-chance” robberies in Abuja.
The Chairman, NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, made the call during her goodwill message at the operational assessment visit of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Department of Training and Development (DTD), DIG Isyaku Mohammed, to the FCT Police Command Headquarters in Abuja.
She described the media as an indispensable partner in promoting public safety through accurate and responsible reporting, public enlightenment and the dissemination of verified information capable of strengthening confidence in law enforcement agencies.
According to her, responsible journalism plays a vital role in supporting community policing by encouraging citizens to report crimes, educating residents on preventive security measures and showcasing successful policing initiatives.
Comrade Ike expressed concern over the growing incidence of “one-chance” robberies in the Federal Capital Territory, where criminals masquerade as commercial or private transport operators before attacking unsuspecting passengers. She noted that women and young commuters remain among the most vulnerable victims.
She observed that many victims are reluctant to report such attacks due to fear, trauma or lack of confidence in the justice system, a situation she said allows criminal networks to continue operating.
To address the challenge, the NUJ Chairman advocated a comprehensive strategy involving intensified patrols, improved intelligence gathering, enhanced safety measures within the public transport system, stronger community participation, effective victim support services and sustained public awareness campaigns driven by the media.
She also urged security agencies to continue recognising journalists as strategic partners in crime prevention, stressing that the timely release of credible information would help combat misinformation and strengthen public trust in policing efforts.
Comrade Ike commended the FCT Police Command for its ongoing reforms and modernization initiatives, while applauding the Police Public Relations Office for maintaining a cordial and professional relationship with the media.
She reaffirmed the NUJ FCT Council’s commitment to balanced, objective and responsible journalism that supports transparency, accountability and the rule of law while highlighting the achievements and challenges of policing.
The NUJ Chairman further advocated regular engagement and capacity-building programmes between journalists and the police to deepen mutual understanding and improve collaborative responses to emerging security threats.
She emphasized that lasting success in the fight against crime would require sustained cooperation among government agencies, transport unions, community leaders, civil society organisations and the media.
Commending the Inspector-General of Police for the operational assessment of Zone 7, Comrade Ike described the initiative as a demonstration of the Police leadership’s commitment to strengthening grassroots security and improving service delivery. She wished DIG Isyaku Mohammed, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP (Prof.) Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi, and officers of the Command continued success in their efforts to protect lives and property across the Federal Capital Territory.
