The Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) has clarified that those involved in the recent tragic incident on Mabushi Bridge were not its staff or representatives.
In a statement signed by Kingsley Madaki, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to the Executive Chairman, AMAC, the council expressed condolences to the bereaved family, describing the occurrence as deeply regrettable.
“Our investigation reveals that the perpetrators are touts, commonly known as *agbero*, who operate around the Area 1 Roundabout,” the statement said. “They allegedly dragged a commuter from the roundabout to Mabushi Banex junction, where the incident occurred, leading to loss of lives.”
AMAC stressed its commitment to residents’ safety and urged relevant authorities to carry out a thorough investigation to prevent a recurrence.
It recalled that on February 13, 2025, AMAC Chairman, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, had raised the alarm over touts impersonating council officials and harassing motorists in the FCT. He noted that genuine AMAC staff undergo biannual training, often in collaboration with security agencies, to ensure lawful and professional conduct in revenue collection.
“Unfortunately, many touts are tarnishing AMAC’s image by harassing motorists in our name. Our staff are trained to operate within the law, unlike these impostors. They wear jackets and claim to be AMAC staff, but when apprehended, they identify themselves as members of NURTW or DOAS under the FCTA,” Maikalangu stated.
To address the menace, the Chairman has directed the creation of a special task force to apprehend touts and restore public confidence.
AMAC appealed for continued cooperation from residents, assuring them of its dedication to maintaining peace, safety, and integrity in its operations.
