By Adenike Lawal
Residents of the Federal Housing Authority Estate in Karu Phase One, Abuja, are sounding the alarm over growing insecurity triggered by the unchecked activities of commercial motorcyclists and tricycle operators.
In a petition to the Divisional Police Headquarters, Nyanya, the Royal Palm Community Committee accused the operators of turning the estate’s entrance into an unlawful base.
The group said shanties, roadside stalls, and illegal parking have overrun the neighborhood, disrupting movement and threatening peace.
“We are living in fear,” the petition reads. “They have taken over our roads and even parts of a school. Residents are harassed and silenced. This must stop.”
Signed by the committee’s security chair, Yahaya Abubakar, and secretary, Chinedu Abah, the petition recounted a violent incident between May 14 and 15 in which a resident was attacked and hospitalized by suspected intruders.
The community fears more harm if nothing is done.
An anonymous resident described how once-quiet streets like Lantana Crescent have become unsafe at night.
“They come from nowhere, erect shelters, block the road, and make life unbearable. It is as if we no longer own our own estate,” he said.
The residents are urging the police and the FCT Administration to act swiftly.
Their demand is simple: remove the unlawful occupants, enforce order, and return safety to Karu Phase One.
