Residents of the Kaida Tsoho community in Gwagwalada Area Council, within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have urgently called on President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to address the critical lack of essential services. Their appeal highlights escalating security threats, crumbling infrastructure, and limited access to vital agricultural resources.
During a community forum held yesterday in Abuja as part of the upcoming launch of The Movement for the Transformation of Nigeria (MOTION), community spokesperson Mr. Jibreel Idris Galadima emphasized that insecurity remains a pressing issue. He explained that local vigilante groups, in collaboration with the police, are the primary source of protection, though their capabilities are insufficient.
“Our safety largely depends on vigilante groups working alongside law enforcement, but their resources are stretched thin,” Galadima explained. “We receive minimal support from official security agencies. Enhanced government backing in this area would be invaluable.”
Galadima also expressed concern over the sharp decline in agricultural productivity, attributing it to the soaring prices and scarcity of key farming inputs like fertilizers.
“Previously, farmers had better access to fertilizers and other necessary supplies. Now, the prohibitive costs have severely impacted our yields. We earnestly request government intervention to assist the farming community,” he urged.
Other community members voiced similar grievances, stressing the need for immediate government action. Mr. Isah Barde recounted how recent ethnic conflicts ravaged farmlands, leaving many farmers anxious about their future harvests.
“My farm was completely destroyed. I haven’t been able to return, and I’m uncertain if there will be any crops to gather this season,” Barde shared.
He further highlighted the deplorable condition of local roads, which worsen during the rainy season, severely restricting access to medical facilities and other essential services.
“When women go into labor, even in the dead of night, we have no choice but to transport them on motorcycles to the nearest town. Our local health center lacks a resident doctor,” he lamented.
Another resident, Habiba Ali, emotionally described the hardships women endure during childbirth due to the absence of a functional healthcare facility.
“Often, we must walk or ride motorcycles to the closest town for delivery. Tragically, some women have had to give birth by the roadside,” she revealed.
Ali also pointed out that the community’s sole river frequently dries up or becomes polluted, as livestock often contaminate the water, rendering it unsafe for drinking.
Speaking on behalf of the village chief, Mr. Ahmed Biko expressed gratitude to the visiting delegation for acknowledging the community’s challenges.
“The concerns raised have been well articulated, and we appreciate the attention given to these matters,” Biko stated.
Addressing attendees, MOTION representative Mr. Omole Ibukun affirmed the organization’s commitment to empowering communities to voice their concerns and demand accountability from leaders.
“The issues faced by Kaida Tsoho-deteriorating roads, inadequate healthcare, land disputes-are widespread throughout the FCT,” Ibukun noted. “On October 17, we will officially inaugurate the MOTION platform and organize a peaceful demonstration at the seat of government to call for tangible reforms.”
