In an effort to address the ongoing challenge of “one chance” robberies in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Nyesom Wike has revealed a comprehensive strategy aimed at enhancing public safety.
During a recent media chat, Wike announced the forthcoming prohibition of unpainted taxis and buses from operating within the territory. The move is intended to eliminate the anonymity that unpainted vehicles provide to criminal elements.
Wike stated, “We are not going to allow vehicles that are not painted with FCT colour and registered by the FCTA to ply commercial in the territory.
“That way, you know the driver is certified by the FCT and the buses and the taxes were also approved by the FCT.
“When this is done, you as the passenger will not take the risk of going to enter any vehicle that you don’t even know.”
The crackdown on unpainted vehicles is not limited to traditional taxis and buses; it will also extend to ride-hailing services such as Uber.
Wike emphasised the need for drivers to undergo certification and profiling by security agencies, underscoring the importance of implementing rules in a city to prevent problems.
“This is a city, if you don’t have rules, there will be problems,” he added.
Highlighting another aspect contributing to the vulnerability of passengers, Wike pointed out the lack of designated bus terminals.
To address this, he unveiled plans to construct a minimum of three terminals in 2024.
“That way, you know the drivers and the vehicle that you are entering.
“But currently, everybody is just on the road. You are going to Nyanya, a car is on the road, you enter; you are going to Wuye, a car is on the road you enter.
“What we are trying to do in the 2024 fiscal year is to at least build three terminals for a start, so that we will know the buses and taxes that will carry people from such terminals.
“When this is done nobody will take the risk of going on the road to wave for a taxi. That way, you will be able to reduce crime,” Wike articulated.