Kurudu Residents Live In Fear As Insecurity, Poor Electricity Bite

Residents of the Nigerian Army Housing Estates and adjoining communities in Kurudu, Abuja, are living in constant fear as insecurity and poor electricity supply continue to plague their daily life and economic activities.

Mrs Amina Sani, a resident of the estate, said the situation had created widespread anxiety among families, with the people unable to sleep peacefully at night.

“People cannot sleep peacefully at night any more; we are always on alert, listening for any strange sound, and it is affecting our peace of mind,” she said.

A security guard, Yaro Ahmed, attributed the growing insecurity to poor street lighting and erratic electricity supply, which leaves many parts of the community in darkness at night.

“When the environment is dark, it becomes easy for criminals to operate, but with good lighting, their movement can easily be noticed,” he said.

Mr Udoh  Ofon, Chairman, Zone A, community, Kurudu, also lamented the inconsistency in power supply, stressing that it has disrupted daily routines and increased dependence on alternative sources such as generators, which come at additional cost.

“We are supposed to enjoy stable electricity, but that is not the case. Sometimes power comes very late at night and lasts for less than an hour. It is difficult to cope.”

“Residents are dissatisfied with the lack of visible impact despite paying service charges meant for housing maintenance, including security and street lighting.

“We are paying for services, but we are not seeing results. There should be accountability,” he stated

However, Mrs Usena Ali, secretary of the Landlords Association, Kurudu community, said several complaints have been made to relevant authorities, including security agencies and estate management, but responses have been slow.

“Residents are calling on the Federal Capital Territory Administration and other stakeholders to urgently intervene by strengthening security presence and ensuring more reliable electricity supply.”

The situation is taking a toll on the community, threatening to undo progress made in recent years, as Kurudu has witnessed rapid population growth driven by affordable housing and expanding infrastructure.

Prompt action is necessary to restore confidence, improve living conditions, and sustain Kurudu’s growth as an emerging residential hub,” she said.

Some residents, who declined to be named, emphasised the need for authorities to prioritise security and infrastructure development, ensuring residents can live without fear and enjoy basic amenities.