NUJ FCT Pledges Media Support for Community Policing, Seeks Holistic Action Against “One-Chance” Crimes By Raymond Enoch
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting community policing through responsible journalism while calling for a comprehensive strategy to combat the growing menace of “one-chance” robberies in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, made the pledge while delivering a goodwill message during the operational visit of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Department of Training and Development, Isyaku Mohammed, to the Nigeria Police Force FCT Command Headquarters in Abuja.
Comrade Ike said the media would continue to partner with the police by disseminating verified information, educating residents on personal safety, and highlighting successful security operations aimed at restoring public confidence.
“We stand ready to support community policing initiatives that strengthen the relationship between the police and the communities they serve,” she said.
“Responsible and factual reporting helps build trust, encourages victims to report crimes, and amplifies preventive messages that ultimately save lives.”
She described the persistent incidence of “one-chance” robberies—where criminals posing as commercial or private vehicle operators rob unsuspecting passengers—as a major security challenge in Abuja, noting that women and young commuters are among the most affected.
According to her, many victims fail to report such incidents due to fear, trauma, or lack of confidence in the system, allowing perpetrators to continue operating unchecked.
The NUJ chairman called for a holistic response that combines enhanced patrols and intelligence gathering, improved public transportation security, stronger community engagement, victim support services, and sustained public awareness campaigns.
She also stressed the importance of recognizing journalists as strategic partners in the fight against crime, saying timely access to verified information would help counter misinformation, promote public awareness, and strengthen trust in law enforcement.
Comrade Ike commended the modernization efforts of the FCT Police Command and praised its leadership, particularly the Police Public Relations Office, for maintaining a cordial and professional relationship with the media.
She reaffirmed the commitment of the NUJ FCT Council to balanced, objective, and accountable journalism that highlights security successes while promoting transparency and adherence to the rule of law.
The NUJ chairman further advocated regular capacity-building programmes and structured dialogue between journalists and the police to enhance mutual understanding and improve coordinated responses to security challenges.
“We need sustained collaboration among government agencies, transport unions, community leaders, civil society, and the media to close the gaps that enable these crimes,” she stated.
Comrade Ike also welcomed the operational tour by the Inspector-General of Police’s management team to Zone 7, describing it as evidence of the police leadership’s commitment to addressing security realities at the grassroots.
She wished DIG Isyaku Mohammed, the Commissioner of Police, CP (Prof.) Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi, and officers of the FCT Command continued success and safety in the discharge of their responsibilities.
