The abduction for ransom has become a significant security challenge in Nigeria. Kidnappers have shifted their operations from the major expressways to communities in Lagos, Ogun, and Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. An intelligence report titled “The Economics of Nigeria’s Kidnap Industry: Follow the Money,” by SB Morgan, has highlighted that kidnappers’ activities have significantly escalated over time.
The report revealed that between July 2022 and June 2023, there were over 582 kidnappings, resulting in the abduction of 3,620 individuals with a ransom demand of at least N5 billion. Additionally, a reported ransom payment of over N302 million was made, although the actual figure could be higher due to underreporting.
While the Northwest and Northcentral regions previously exhibited higher incidents of kidnapping, the trend is now shifting to some South-Western states such as Lagos and Ogun. Several recent cases of kidnapping have been reported in these areas, indicating an alarming increase in the crime.
For instance, a 13-year-old schoolgirl named Miracle Adereti was kidnapped by an unknown gang in the Ikotun area of Lagos State while returning from school. Another case involved a car dealer, Ejike Conversion, who was abducted by armed men while taking an inventory of his goods in the Ladipo Spare Parts Market. Similar incidents have also occurred in the Ijebu area of Ogun State and Abuja, where a man and his six daughters were abducted, leading to tragic consequences.
These escalating incidents have drawn widespread outrage and condemnation. Efforts to raise funds for ransom have been made, and in some cases, individuals have offered to pay the remaining amount of the ransom to secure the release of hostages. Meanwhile, the kidnappers have continued to escalate their demands, leading to further tragic outcomes.
The deteriorating security situation has sparked a national outcry, with prominent figures like Atiku Abubakar expressing deep concern over the unchecked reign of terror by bandits and kidnappers. Additionally, there are calls for the Federal Government to fulfill its constitutional obligations of protecting the lives and property of citizens.
Despite the gravity of the situation, there has been a lack of official response from authorities, as attempts to reach out to the police spokespersons have been unsuccessful. The spike in cases of kidnappings across major cities in the country remains a growing concern that demands urgent attention.