Crime

By Olayinka Iroye

In recent weeks, Nigeria has been rocked by disturbing reports of senseless killings and rampant kidnappings across several states, notably Plateau, Benue, Niger, and Kwara. These violent acts, allegedly perpetrated by Fulani militias and armed bandits, have further deepened the pervasive atmosphere of fear and insecurity that now grips the nation.

Simultaneously, a troubling wave of kidnappings has emerged in Kwara State. One notable incident involved the abduction of passengers traveling on an Abuja-bound bus near the Obbo-Aiyegunle–Osi axis in Kwara South. Reports suggest that the kidnappers demanded a staggering ransom of ₦15 million from each passenger. Just days later, another kidnapping was reported in Eleyin village near Isanlu-Isin, further demonstrating that no area in Kwara seems safe anymore. Although unconfirmed reports hint that two of the victims may have been released, the frequency of these incidents points to a growing and dangerous trend.

It is increasingly evident that Kwara State, particularly Kwara South, is becoming ensnared in the twin crises of northern banditry and southern kidnapping. Once considered a relatively peaceful state, Kwara is now at risk of becoming a major hotspot for criminal activities.

Across Nigeria, no location appears immune to insecurity. If it is not the bloodshed caused by Fulani herdsmen and militias, it is the calculated abductions orchestrated by well-armed criminal syndicates. Security agencies have raised alarms about the growing profitability of kidnapping, which, disturbingly, is now viewed by some as a more lucrative business than legitimate endeavors. In some extreme cases, there have even been reports of individuals orchestrating their own kidnappings or couples staging abductions to extort money from relatives.

The urgent need for decisive government intervention cannot be overstated. The road networks around Obbo-Aiyegunle and Osi, previously flagged as dangerous corridors, have once again proven to be deadly routes. The state and federal governments must prioritize the immediate security of these areas and intensify surveillance and military presence.

While the Federal Government often bears the brunt of public outrage over insecurity, state governments must also be held accountable. Every month, millions of naira are allocated to state governments as “security votes,” ostensibly for strengthening local security architecture. It is fair to ask: what have these funds been used for? How effective have local interventions been? Kwara State Government, in particular, must rise to the challenge before the crisis spirals beyond control.

Grave concerns remain about the safety of those currently held captive. Their lives hang in the balance, and their families remain helpless, traumatized, and desperate. Beyond financial intervention, Kwara State must urgently establish a comprehensive, sustainable security framework to curb kidnapping and banditry.

The Federal Government, through the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has vowed to end the wave of killings and kidnappings plaguing Plateau and Benue States. The Inspector-General of Police has similarly pledged a crackdown on criminals across the country. Meanwhile, in response to recent attacks, the Governor of Niger State, Umaru Bago, has imposed a 6pm to 6am curfew on Minna, the state capital, and instructed District Heads to intensify visitor documentation. Any individual found to be harboring criminals will face swift prosecution.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has also vowed to mount an aggressive campaign against bandits and kidnappers. Following attacks on villages in the Kaima axis, the Nigerian military has launched an operation targeting criminals hiding within the Kainji Lake National Park and surrounding areas. Residents have been advised to temporarily vacate these areas to allow for a thorough military operation.

Adding to the chorus of voices calling for action, prominent lawyer Mike Ozekhome, SAN, recently shared a harrowing account of his personal experience with kidnappers. His testimony highlights the grim reality that no one is immune to this threat and underscores the urgent need for a national emergency response to what he describes as “a calamity that needed urgent action as far back as yesterday.”

It is worth noting that in some cases, insider collaboration has facilitated these criminal acts. The possibility of local “sell-outs” individuals betraying their communities for monetary gain must be seriously investigated. Local security networks should be revitalized, adequately funded, and equipped with modern tools to detect and apprehend collaborators and criminal elements.

Furthermore, traditional security systems should not be overlooked. In Yoruba history, skilled hunters (Ode) and traditional spiritualists (Babalawo and the likes) played critical roles in safeguarding communities. Their knowledge, experience, and indigenous security methods could complement modern policing strategies.

One cannot help but recall the days when mythical figures in Yoruba folklore and movies characters portrayed by Jimoh Aliu Arakangudu, Orisabunmi, Fadeyi Oloro, Lalude, Abija, and others represented the power of courage and community protection. While these portrayals may seem like folklore today, the underlying message remains relevant: communities must reclaim agency in securing themselves.

In conclusion, Nigeria stands at a dangerous crossroads. Urgent, collective, and innovative action is needed from the Federal, State, and Local Governments. Communities must also be empowered to defend themselves within the law. Security is a fundamental right, and until Nigeria addresses this threat decisively, development and peace will remain elusive dreams.

The time to act is now, before it is too late. A stich in time saves nine.