Insecurity: Karu Residents Petition Police Over Okada, Keke Riders’ Activities

Residents of Federal Works and Housing Estate (FHA), Karu Phase 1 in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, have petitioned the Divisional Police Headquarters in Nyanya over security threats in the area following activities of motorcyclists (Okada riders) and tricyclists popularly knowns as Keke Napep.

The residents under the auspices of Royal Palm Community Committee (RPCC), decried the influx of commercial motorcyclists to the area especially in the evening after the close of their daily activities and have converted the entrance of the estate to their sleeping post.

In a petition made available to LEADERSHIP, jointly signed by its security committee chairman and secretary general, Yahaya Abubakar and Chinedu Abah, they called on the Police authorities to take urgent action against the illegal occupants in the area.

The petition read: “We the undersigned residents of Royal Palm Street and all adjoining streets humbly petition your office to bring to your attention the pressing issue of illegal occupation and security threats posed by a group of Keke and Okada riders in our estate.

“These individuals, who have come from different locations, have taken over the entrance of the estate and other areas including a primary school building, access roads without any legal rights or permission.

“They have occupied these places creating an eyesore and obstructing free movement; harass and assault residents with impunity who dare to confront them thereby creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.

“Between May, 14-15, 2025 a resident was attacked and taken to Nyanya general hospital from wounds sustained from dangerous weapons. Their actions have led to a breach of peace, and we are concerned about the safety of our community.”

The association said residents now live in fear of the intruders’ constant activities. “We urge you to take immediate action to evacuate these Okada and Keke riders from the area. Enforce relevant laws and regulations to prevent further encroachment, and also ensure public safety and security.”

Meanwhile, a resident who preferred not to named, lamented that the keke operators and okada riders have become a security concern in the area.

He said, “Just a few years ago, this place used to be peaceful, but now the entrance to this estate is now flooded especially in the evening by unknown characters constituting nuisance. They have erected shanties everywhere and engage in all manner of trade.”

“We have our sub-association on Lantana Crescent, Lantana Street and Lantana Close of the estate and members always complain about harassment by them, especially when there are commuting at night. They practically block half of the road, leaving estate residents to navigate a narrow passage way. They don’t pay rent to anyone, so I want to call on security operatives and the FCTA to address the issue. As you can see, they pose serious security threats here,” he stressed.