The pervasive scourge of abductions, once concentrated in the North-West, has now spread nationwide as criminal elements and bandits extend their operations to major cities. Previously confined to highways and rural areas, criminals have intensified attacks in urban centers like Lagos, Abuja, and beyond.
The tragic killing of four victims in the Sagwari Estate Layout, Abuja, intensified public outrage as the bandits demanded a staggering N700 million ransom for the release of seven family members. Among the abducted victims, Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar, a 400-level student of ABU Zaria, was brutally killed for alleged delays in ransom payment.
As of Monday night, five sisters, including Najeebah and Nadherah, remain in captivity. The bandits initially asked for N60 million, later raising it to N100 million for each captive. The family sought financial support from Nigerians to secure their release.
Meanwhile, another heart-wrenching incident involved the murder of 13-year-old Folashade Ariyo, abducted alongside her mother and siblings. The bandits killed two unidentified hostages, dumping their bodies in Kaduna. Folashade was buried on Sunday, while her mother and siblings are still in captivity.
The alarming trend of kidnappings extends beyond the North, with incidents reported in Lagos, Ogun, Enugu, and Imo states. Security agencies, including the police and NSCDC, have been urged to address the rising cases of abductions, which have claimed numerous lives and traumatized communities.
Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar decried the unchecked reign of bandits and kidnappers, linking the rise in poverty and hunger to the escalating insecurity. The first lady, Oluremi Tinubu, called for urgent intervention, emphasizing prayers for the safe return of kidnapped individuals.
The security situation prompts concerns, and citizens are urging the government to prioritize the safety of lives and property. Despite efforts to combat kidnapping, the alarming statistics reveal a critical need for a comprehensive and dynamic approach to address the evolving security challenges.”
