Despite Security Deployment, Fear Persists In Kaduna’s Millennium City

Despite the deployment of additional Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and security vehicles to boost security situation in the state especially around Millennium City, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, residents remain apprehensive.

Many of them are saying the renewed security presence has yet to restore their confidence.

A day after the reported deployment aimed at strengthening security and curbing the persistent cases of kidnapping in the area, findings by this correspondent indicated that residents are still living in fear, even as they continue with their daily activities.

The deployment, which has seen security vehicles positioned at strategic locations, is yet to convince many residents that the recurring threat of abduction has been effectively addressed.

Although residents acknowledged the occasional presence of security operatives and patrol vehicles, they said the fear of being kidnapped from their homes remains a major concern.

“We only hear the sirens at night. For now, we don’t have issue of attack, but even at that, we are not sleeping with our two eyes closed,” a resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.

Another resident said the security deployment and occasional show of force had not addressed what he described as the underlying problem of kidnapping in Millennium City and neighbouring communities.

“We have been seeing their vehicles and show of force once in a while.

“But the issue of kidnapping in Millennium City area here is becoming a tradition.

“Our major problem is informants. The people we are co-living with are our major problem.

“So, if the government wants to help genuinely, they must work very well in that area,” the resident said.

The allegations point to the need for security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and investigate suspected local collaborators who may be providing criminal gangs with information on residents, their movements and possible targets.

For residents, the challenge goes beyond the visible presence of security vehicles on the streets, as they seek sustained operations capable of preventing attacks, rescuing abducted persons and dismantling kidnapping networks operating around the area.

Communities including Millennium City, Angwan Makama, Janruwa, Bagado, Mahuta and Mararaban Rido have continued to face security concerns, with residents yearning for an environment where ordinary activities can be carried out without fear.

Many families are particularly worried about the safety of their children, farmers and other residents who regularly move around the communities for school, work and social engagements.

They said the ultimate measure of the latest security deployment would be its ability to prevent further abductions and restore public confidence, rather than the number of patrol vehicles stationed at strategic locations.

Residents are therefore looking forward to a time when they can send their children to school, go to farms and engage in social activities without the fear of being kidnapped in their homes.