In a decisive move to curb rising insecurity, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has cleared the Kobi forest — a known hideout for kidnappers — as part of a broader strategy to enhance safety in vulnerable communities.
During the clearance operation in Abuja on Monday, Director of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, stated that the initiative was aimed at dismantling criminal strongholds near Guzape and Asokoro village.
“This forest has become a haven for kidnappers,” Galadima said. “About a week ago, there was a reported case of kidnapping, and the suspects were traced to this area.
In the course of a rescue attempt, one of the vigilante officers lost his life. That is why we are here this morning—to ensure all the trees are brought down.”
The operation followed a recent attack by suspected kidnappers in Kobi and Kpaduma III villages, which resulted in the death of a vigilante commander.
Two villagers abducted during the incident were swiftly rescued by a tactical police unit led by FCT Police Commissioner, Ajao Adewale.
Galadima explained that the decision to remove the cashew trees had the full backing of local residents, who prioritized safety over any form of compensation.
“I have just been informed by the representative of the village chief that they support this action, and will cooperate with us in clearing everything, because they, too, have been victims of the situation,” he said.
“They are not asking for compensation, only for total clearance of the trees.”
He also mentioned that unauthorized structures around the area would be demolished and proposed the establishment of a permanent police post to strengthen local security.
“This effort is not confined to the city center; it extends beyond it,” Galadima added.
“A few weeks ago, we started clearing plantations in places like Apo Resettlement, and we also cleared the Mabushi scavenger colony where trees were used as shelter for criminals.”
In a further show of force, the FCT Security Services Department announced that drone surveillance and forest guards would be deployed to monitor cleared areas and surrounding communities.
Dr. Peter Olumiji, who represented the Director of FCT Security Services, Adamu Gwary, said: “As the director has explained, this forest is a major transit route for kidnapping activities. From here, criminals can move to Karu, Jikwoyi, Orozo, and Kurudu.”
He confirmed that a 24-hour police outpost and solar-powered streetlights would soon be installed to secure the area, while ongoing investigations are being conducted into the September 15 incident.
Sharing his perspective, Kobi resident Iliya Iwadagba recounted how life in the area changed over the past few years.
“We did not experience this kind of thing. However, five years ago, some unwanted individuals began arriving here, and we can no longer use this route,” he said.
“Anytime we pass there in the evening, people will just come out from the bush and attack innocent people.”
The FCTA reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, promising continued collaboration with security agencies to dismantle criminal networks in the region.
