The Federal Government has stated that the North West recorded the highest crime incidence in the country with the Southeast having the lowest.
The latest data compiled by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) is called Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey (CESPS), and according to a statement by Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communications, Daniel Bwala, the concept of reporting crime using data is President Bola Tinubu administration’s goal of running an all-inclusive data-driven socio-economic agenda.
The Presidency explained that the North West recorded the highest crime rate with 14 million cases followed by the North Central which stood at 8.8 million incidents. The South East had the lowest occurrence of household crimes with 6.1 million cases.
The data made available by the Presidential aide showed South West with 6.9m, South South – 7.7m, and North East – 7.9m respectively.
“However, it is instructive to state without equivocation that the report released by the NBS is a pointer to the several efforts of the current administration in addressing the security challenges ubiquitous in the country.
“Unlike what obtained in the preceding year 2023 where crime incidences were pronounced high and at a crescendo, the 2024 report largely revealed the synergy between all relevant security architectures of the country – including military and paramilitary agencies, not forgetting private sector collaborations fostered by the Renewed Hope administration of Mr. President.
“The Latin word speaks to this undeniable fact – rep ipsa loquitor – facts speak for itself.”
“the country has witnessed a drastic decline in cases of incessant kidnapping in the South, armed banditry, and cattle rustling in the North, especially North West.
“The activities of the proscribed group from the South East, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its affiliate – the Eastern Security Network, otherwise known as ‘Unknown Gunmen’ have largely reduced, and more importantly, the recent arrest of the Finland-based agent provocateur, Simon Ekpa who had hitherto instigated endless onslaughts on people from the South East.
“On the Northern flank, Nigerians have seen fewer school attacks in the outgoing year, contrary to what was obtainable in recent years. This, no doubt, further lends credence to the fight against crime by the current administration.