An official Hilux vehicle attached to the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, was stolen in Abuja on Friday afternoon while the driver was observing Juma’at prayers. The theft occurred at approximately 1:05 p.m. in Area 10, a location generally considered to be within a high-security zone of the Federal Capital Territory.
According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary reports, the Hilux was parked near the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) complex when it was taken. The driver, whose identity has not been disclosed, had left the vehicle to participate in the weekly Muslim congregational prayers. Upon returning after the prayer session, the driver discovered that the vehicle was missing.
The vehicle, which is said to be an official utility truck, was reportedly being used for operations and assignments under the NSA’s office. Security operatives were immediately alerted to the incident. Efforts to locate the stolen vehicle commenced shortly after the report was made.
The audacity of the theft has raised serious concerns among citizens and security analysts. Area 10 is known for its heavy governmental presence and is considered one of Abuja’s more secure districts due to the proximity of several federal buildings and security institutions. The fact that a government-marked vehicle, tied to the nation’s top security office, could be stolen in broad daylight within such an area has prompted questions regarding both criminal boldness and existing security lapses.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official statement from the Office of the National Security Adviser. However, sources within the security apparatus confirmed that intelligence and security agencies have been deployed to trace and recover the vehicle. Surveillance footage from the area is reportedly being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
The incident comes amid growing concerns about rising crime rates in the Federal Capital Territory. Residents have frequently raised alarms over thefts, robberies, and increasing insecurity in parts of Abuja. The theft of a government vehicle, particularly one linked to the NSA’s office, adds to a growing list of incidents that suggest even official personnel are not immune from the impacts of the prevailing security situation.
Security experts have described the theft as a disturbing development. They argue that it highlights the need for a review of security protocols, particularly for government vehicles and facilities. Analysts also noted that such incidents can have broader implications if sensitive documents or equipment are ever left inside government vehicles during routine outings.
Police authorities have yet to make any arrests in connection with the case. However, investigations are ongoing, and security agencies have urged anyone with information regarding the vehicle’s whereabouts to come forward. It remains unclear whether the perpetrators were targeting the vehicle specifically due to its government affiliation or whether it was an opportunistic crime.
This latest incident further underscores the evolving tactics of criminal elements operating within Abuja and potentially signals a need for urgent intervention at both local and federal levels. The Office of the NSA, known for its oversight of national security strategy and coordination, is expected to respond with tightened measures to prevent a recurrence.
As the investigation continues, the public awaits further updates from law enforcement agencies and government officials regarding progress in the case and the recovery of the stolen Hilux.
