Kidnapping crisis in Nigeria: A growing threat to safety and well-being

The menace of kidnapping has evolved into a formidable security menace in Nigeria, posing a grave threat to the safety and well-being of its populace, as numerous citizens have tragically become ensnared in the clutches of this abhorrent crime.

Regrettably, even when ransom payments are made in a desperate bid to secure the release of these unfortunate victims, the insurmountable challenge of raising the exorbitant sums demanded often results in their untimely demise, perpetuating a cycle of despair and heartbreak.

The recent brazen assault in Bagega, where a staggering 50 individuals were forcibly abducted and three lives were ruthlessly extinguished, serves as a stark reminder of the distressing frequency with which such incidents continue to plague Nigeria’s northwest Zamfara state, further exacerbating the already dire situation.

Kidnapping for ransom has become commonplace in northwestern Nigeria, where armed gangs, often referred to as bandits, have targeted villages, schools, and travelers, demanding millions of naira in ransom.

This has made it unsafe to travel by road or farm in some areas, leading to economic hardship for the affected communities.

According to a report by SBM Intelligence, between July 2022 and June 2023, about 3,620 people were abducted in 582 kidnap-related incidents in the country, with a reported ransom demand of at least N5 billion and actual ransom payments of N302 million.

However, this figure could be higher due to underreporting. Despite the efforts of security agencies to secure lives and property, kidnapping remains prevalent in some parts of the country, particularly in Zamfara, Kaduna, Enugu, and several other states.

The lack of adequate security presence in remote communities has made them vulnerable to attacks by armed gunmen.

In the north, terrorists and bandits are kidnapping girls and young women as sex slaves, “brides,” and camp attendants. This is another major challenge for President Bola Tinubu and his security chiefs.

Amid economic adversity, widespread poverty, and anxiety, criminals are tormenting Nigerians and overwhelming the security apparatus.

In the eerie month of September, a wave of fear swept across Nigeria as gunmen unleashed terror on unsuspecting victims.

It seemed that no place was safe, as they struck with audacity and impunity.The first incident occurred on the Ugbokolo/Otukpa federal highway, where 11 innocent souls traveling from Onitsha to Makurdi were snatched away by these heartless criminals.

This brazen act marked the second time in just one week that Benue Links buses had fallen prey to their clutches. And it didn’t stop there.

On the Ajaokuta/Okene Road, another group of gunmen seized 10 passengers, leaving them at the mercy of their captors.

The Christ Apostolic Church Nigeria, deeply concerned for the safety of its members, issued a somber warning, urging them to avoid traveling in branded buses. Their advice came too late for 25 choristers who were abducted in Ondo State, their voices silenced by the darkness that engulfed them.

Though the police managed to rescue eight of the kidnapped victims swiftly, the remaining captives languished in captivity for days. Their freedom came at a steep price, as their families were forced to pay a staggering ransom of N50 million.

Such exorbitant demands only fuel the greed and audacity of these criminals. Even a retired army general, R.C Duru, was not spared from their clutches.

In Owerri, Imo State, they brazenly snatched him and his prized Mercedes Benz SUV, leaving behind only an empty void. The abandoned vehicle served as a haunting reminder of the lawlessness that plagues the land.Nigeria, already plagued by terrorism, banditry, Fulani herdsmen violence, gang violence, and armed robbery, cannot afford to let kidnappers run rampant.

It is a battle for the soul of the nation, and it is imperative that leaders like Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, rise to the occasion.

The military and other security agencies must also step up their efforts to protect the lives and well-being of Nigerians.But the question remains: where is safe? The answer seems to be nowhere. These criminals strike with impunity, snatching people from their farms, homes, workplaces, and even schools and hostels.

They operate not only in the remote corners of the country but also in the heart of the Federal Capital Territory, lurking in the shadows of the city’s gated residential estates.Their audacity knows no bounds, as they now target young girls.

Riding in a menacing convoy of 50 motorcycles, bandits raided a female hostel at the Federal University in Gusau, Zamfara State, and cruelly stole away 30 innocent students. And just this month, another gang struck at the Federal University in Dutsin-ma, Katsina State, abducting five young female students from their hostel.

The time for action is now. Nigeria cannot afford to let fear and lawlessness reign. The people deserve to live in peace and security, free from the clutches of these heartless criminals.

It is a battle that must be fought on all fronts, with unwavering determination and a commitment to justice. Only then can Nigeria reclaim its rightful place as a safe haven for its citizens.

Despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promises to tackle the growing insecurity in Nigeria, the country continues to grapple with an alarming rise in kidnappings.

This perceived failure of the president has left Nigerians increasingly worried about their safety and security. It is high time that security chiefs who consistently fail in their duties are promptly replaced.

The Department of State Services, Nigeria’s domestic intelligence agency, has proven to be inefficient in its primary role and often involves itself in matters that should be left to the police and anti-corruption agencies.

Tinubu must take immediate action to reform and refocus this agency to ensure efficiency.

The current security challenges in Nigeria demand a decentralisation of law enforcement. Policing is a local matter, and relying solely on the federal police force is no longer sufficient. The need for state policing has become critical.

States can no longer afford to wait for protection from an overburdened federal police agency. While advocating for a constitutional amendment, they should establish their own well-equipped, well-trained, and well-funded security outfits. Additionally, existing regional security agencies should be strengthened and given adequate resources.

Egbetokun, in his role, must devise an effective response to combat the menace of kidnapping. This heinous crime must be eradicated, and Tinubu should ensure that the security agencies are appropriately tasked to achieve this goal.

The government must urgently address this security threat and prioritise the safety of its citizens. The lives of Nigerians should never be held for ransom. It is time for decisive action and a comprehensive strategy to restore peace and security to the nation.