Kidnapping In Nigeria: Udoka Cites Economic Hardship, Weak Security, And Corruption As Root Causes

By Henry Ubus

Engr. Emmanuel Udoka, the Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Security, has highlighted the complex root causes of Nigeria’s growing kidnapping crisis. Speaking on the pressing issue, he outlined three key factors contributing to the alarming rise in abductions across the country.

Firstly, Udoka emphasized the severe economic hardship faced by many Nigerians. He explained that high inflation, coupled with a struggling economy, has driven some individuals to resort to desperate measures like kidnapping as a means of survival.

“The economic challenges in Nigeria have pushed many to the brink,” he said, noting that economic instability creates fertile ground for criminal activities.

Secondly, Udoka pointed to the country’s weakened security infrastructure, describing Nigeria’s security architecture as fraught with internal sabotage and severely under-resourced. According to him, these internal weaknesses make it difficult for security forces to effectively combat the rising tide of kidnappings.

He further stressed that the lack of necessary resources, coupled with internal sabotage within the security agencies, has allowed criminals to operate with near impunity.

Thirdly, Engr. Udoka raised concerns over the breakdown of trust between the public and state institutions. He alleged that some officials collaborate with kidnappers, further eroding public faith in government institutions and security forces.

“Some officials are involved in aiding and abetting kidnappers, which has greatly undermined public confidence in our institutions,” Udoka revealed.

He warned that until the root causes of the crisis, including economic instability, approval of state security, and institutional corruption, are meaningfully addressed, kidnapping will remain a persistent threat in Nigeria.

The remarks by Engr. Udoka have drawn attention to the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to tackle the kidnapping menace that continues to plague the country.