By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Federal Government of Nigeria has been urged to swiftly establish a Forest Guard Service to tackle the alarming increase in highway kidnappings.
This call was made by Mr. Amah A. Amah, Director General of the African Writers Centre, in a statement released over the weekend. Highlighting the urgency of the matter, Mr. Amah emphasized the need for action, particularly as the festive season approaches, with kidnapping incidents escalating alarmingly.
“As 2024 draws to a close, Nigerians planning year-end trips between the North and South are increasingly gripped by fear,” he stated. “With airfare beyond the reach of many, a common question remains: ‘How can we embark on these journeys without falling victim to kidnappers?’”
Mr. Amah described the dire state of highway travel, noting that kidnappings along major routes have become so frequent that passengers often say their last prayers before setting off.
Recent Incidents Raise Alarms
The most recent case involved a bus operated by a well-known transport company, God is Good Motors (GIGM). On November 30, 2024, all 14 passengers traveling from Port Harcourt to Abuja were abducted near Obajana, Kogi State, just past the Dangote refinery. The bus driver narrowly escaped, but reports indicate the kidnappers are demanding a ransom of ₦100 million for the release of each passenger.
This is not an isolated incident. Earlier this year, on February 3, 12 passengers from GIGM and two from ABC Transport were kidnapped along the same highway. Similarly, in August, 20 medical students traveling to Enugu for a convention were abducted along the Otukpo-Benue-Enugu road and released after 10 days in captivity.
Government Inaction Draws Criticism
Citing these incidents, Mr. Amah questioned the Federal Government’s delay in establishing the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS). He argued that such a service, backed by legislative approval, could provide 24/7 surveillance of forested areas and ensure the safety of travelers.
“There is a pressing need for NFSS to clear and secure forested stretches along highways, creating a safe corridor for motorists,” he stated. “This will transform forests from lawless zones into monitored areas under strict surveillance.”
A Plea for Security
Many Nigerians are calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to expedite the creation of the NFSS. They believe this measure would help curb the menace of kidnappings and restore confidence in road travel across the country.
With countless unreported cases and a mounting toll of psychological trauma, loss of lives, and financial ruin, the call for dedicated forest guards grows louder each day. Nigerians are hopeful for swift government intervention to bring an end to this crisis.
