Cite this article as: Almu B., Amzat J. & Yahaya S. (2024). Reflexes on Kidnapping: Victims' Experiences in Zamfara State, Nigeria. Proceedings of International Conference on Rethinking Security through the lens of Humanities for Sustainable National Development Interdisciplinary Perspectives. Pp. 173-184.
REFLEXES ON KIDNAPPING: VICTIMS' EXPERIENCES IN
ZAMFARA STATE, NIGERIA
By
Bello Almu
Department of Sociology
Usmanu Danfodiyo
University Sokoto
And
Jimoh Amzat
Medical Social Services Department
Usmanu
Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital Sokoto
And
Samaila Yahaya
Department of English Language and Literary
Studies
Zamfara State College of Education, Maru
Abstract: Nigeria's security situation is alarming, with frequent
incidents of kidnapping and banditry, particularly in Zamfara State. This study
set out to examine the experiences of kidnapping in Zamfara State, focusing on
how victims were treated during their captivity. The study use Strain, Social
Exchange theory and phenomenology was used as a framework, the research
involved in-depth interviews with 26 participants, chosen through purposive,
and snowball sampling techniques. The results showed that kidnappers in the
state are numerous, often using motorcycles and sophisticated weapons in their
operations. Victims were regularly chained, beaten, and threatened, making
escape nearly impossible. The kidnappers typically demanded ransoms and
maintained direct communication with the victims' families. The study concluded
that Zamfara State of Nigeria is extremely unsafe, with kidnappers being
well-armed and operating widely across the state. Families are frequently
forced to pay ransoms to secure the release of their loved ones. The study
recommended government measures such as tracking motorcycle sales, utilizing
global positioning system (GPS) and mobile network technology for detection,
and collecting crucial information from victims to tackle the issue of kidnapping.
Keywords: Reflexes, Kidnapping, Ransom, Victims and Experiences.
Introduction
Kidnapping for ransom has become a major global
security issue, especially in regions where law enforcement is weak and
governance is failing. This crime is often linked with organized crime,
banditry, and terrorism, posing serious risks to personal safety and national
stability. While kidnapping is reported worldwide, it is particularly common in
politically unstable and conflict-affected areas, such as parts of Africa,
where poor governance allows this crime to thrive (Ewi & Aning, 2023). In
sub-saharan Africa, kidnapping has grown. National Bereu of Statistic (2024)
reported more than two million estimated cases in 2024 alone, as due to a mix
of socio-economic and political issues, with Nigeria standing out as one of the
most affected countries. Northern Nigeria, especially in Zamfara State, has
seen a sharp rise in banditry and kidnapping, with highest ransom payment at
1.2 trillion (National Bereu of Statistic, 2024) worsening the national
security crisis and impacting victims and their communities (Olaniyan &
Yahaya, 2024). This situation raises concerns about the effectiveness of law
enforcement and the broader cultural and social effects of the crime.
In North-western Nigeria, kidnapping for ransom
has increased dramatically in recent years. This is driven by political
instability, economic hardship, and weak law enforcement. Victims often suffer
severe physical and psychological abuse during their captivity, while their
families are left to negotiate for their release, usually paying large ransoms
(Bello & Waziri, 2022). Despite government efforts by providing more
security personnel, enhancing their remuneration and provision of more weapons
among others to address this growing insecurity, the problem persists, exposing
flaws in policy and law enforcement. Kidnappers, often linked to organized
crime and banditry, have become more organized, leaving communities vulnerable
and without sufficient protection or justice (Nwankwo & Yusuf, 2022).
Although many studies focus on the socio-economic causes of kidnapping, fewer
have explored the personal experiences of victims and the broader societal
impact in North-western Nigeria. This study aims to better understand the issue
of kidnapping by focusing on its short-term and long-term effects on victims
and the local areas in Zamfara State. Specifically, to explore the nature of
kidnappers, how they demand ransom, how sophisticated they are and detention conditions of victims.
Ewi and Aning (2023) conducted an extensive
study on kidnapping for ransom across Africa, exploring the dynamics and trends
behind the crime. Their research provides a broad regional overview, including
case studies that offer a solid empirical base. However, their study does not
focus in-depth on regions like North-western Nigeria, where kidnapping has
reached critical levels. Additionally, the study does not explore the
psychological and economic impacts on victims, which are crucial for
understanding the full scope of the problem. This highlights the need for more
targeted research in regions like North-western Nigeria, as well as an analysis
of government and community responses to kidnapping.
Bello and Waziri (2022) focused their research
on Northern Nigeria, offering a detailed look into how kidnapping for ransom
affects individuals and communities. Their study is particularly strong in its
account of victims' experiences, shedding light on the psychological and
economic hardships they endure. This localized approach helps clarify how
cultural and societal factors shape responses to the crime. However, the study
falls short in proposing specific policy solutions to reduce the prevalence of kidnapping.
While it thoroughly examines societal impacts, the role of law enforcement in
tackling the issue is under-explored, as is the long-term resilience of
communities after ransom negotiations.
Ngwama (2023) provided a socio-economic
analysis of kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria, identifying poverty,
unemployment, and inequality as major drivers. This economic perspective is
useful for policy makers looking for root causes. However, Ngwama’s focus on
economics overlooks other critical aspects, such as the structure of kidnapping
groups and the emotional trauma on victims’ experiences. The use of secondary
data limits the depth of the findings, as the live experiences of victims are
not fully captured. Future research could benefit from primary data collection,
such as interviews with victims and perpetrators, and the integration of
criminological perspectives to provide a more complete understanding of the
crime.
Olaniyan and Yahaya (2024) explored the
connection between crime, particularly kidnapping and banditry, and governance
failures in North-western Nigeria. Their research sheds light on how weak
governance, ineffective law enforcement, and corruption have allowed kidnapping
to spread in the region. This is a key strength of their study, as it connects
governance issues with the rise in crime. However, the study does not delve
into the individual experiences of kidnapping victims or community-level
impacts. Although they discuss governance failures, they do not provide
detailed policy recommendations for improving security. Future research could
look at the role of local actors, such as traditional rulers and vigilante
groups, in addressing kidnapping and how these efforts can complement state-led
security initiatives.
Nwankwo and Yusuf (2022) approached the issue
from a national security perspective, focusing on the gaps in policy and the
failures of law enforcement that have allowed kidnapping to flourish. They
offer a detailed critique of the legal and institutional issues in Nigeria and
propose actionable solutions for policy reform. A key strength of their
research is the focus on specific policy recommendations, which are often
missing in other studies. However, their heavy emphasis on policy leaves little
room for exploring the personal and psychological impacts of kidnapping on
victims. Further research could examine how law enforcement reforms can be
combined with community-led initiatives to combat kidnapping more effectively.
Kidnapping and
banditry have become major security threats in Nigeria, affecting both rural
and urban areas. According to recent reports, bandits have shifted their focus
from rural areas to cities like Abuja, Kaduna, Zamfara, and Katsina due to
limited wealthy targets in villages and increased military operations (Sanusi,
2024). This shift has created new security fears, making urban areas less safe
for those fleeing violence in rural regions. Bandits are also pushed to move
due to weak agreements with rural communities, which further complicates the
situation (Madueke et al., 2024). To tackle this, military efforts, community
support programs, and better tracking of bandit activities are needed (Kaledzi
& Uwaisi, 2024).
The worsening
crisis in northwest Nigeria is highlighted by Osman (2025), who reports on the
displacement of rural communities due to violent bandit attacks. Despite
military efforts like Operation Hadarin Daji, challenges such as bandit
mobility, limited resources, and socio-economic issues persist, calling for
systemic reforms for lasting peace. Onuche and Martins (2024) suggest
addressing banditry through community involvement, better economic
opportunities, and local conflict resolution. They note that challenges like
poor organization and inequality limit the effectiveness of these approaches,
but they advocate for the use of technology and peacebuilding strategies to
tackle the root causes of insecurity.
Opene and Opene
(2023) focus on the impacts of kidnapping on national security in northwestern
Nigeria, linking the rise in kidnappings to insurgent groups like Boko Haram
and socio-economic factors such as poverty and corruption. The authors argue
that addressing terrorism, insurgency, poverty, and corruption is key to
reducing kidnappings. Similarly, Chibuzor et al. (2024) examine how kidnapping
and banditry in the northwest affect foreign investment, noting that insecurity
has led to a decline in business activity and economic growth. Also, Ojo et al.
(2023) explore the causes and effects of armed banditry, identifying poverty,
competition for resources, and weak governance as major contributors. They
emphasize that banditry has become a significant security issue, threatening
Nigeria's stability. Utibe and Ogundiya (2024) discuss armed banditry in the
northwest, arguing that issues such as arms trafficking and weak borders have
worsened the situation, with climate change, poverty, and injustice playing significant
roles. The spread of weapons and weak government control have exacerbated the
violence.
The failure of
the amnesty program aimed at reducing banditry is critically examined by Onyia
et al. (2024), who argue that a lack of oversight and local official complicity
have undermined the initiative. They recommend a more strategic military
approach to combating banditry. Tomassini (2024) highlights the growing problem
of mass kidnappings in northern Nigeria, pointing out the ongoing threats posed
by armed groups like Boko Haram. Ashibi and Akintujoye (2024) note the rise of
kidnapping for ransom, fueled by unemployment and the desire for wealth.
Despite laws to stop ransom payments, the Nigerian government has struggled to
address this crime, and further action is needed to protect citizens. Saminu
and Mohammed (2022) on the other hand discussed the impact of kidnapping on
Nigeria’s national security, linking the rise in kidnappings to unemployment
and insecurity, which has caused significant economic damage and harmed
communities. Ojonugwa et al. (2020) also highlight the causes and consequences
of kidnapping, suggesting solutions like strengthening traditional
institutions, harsher penalties for criminals, and better funding for security
forces.
The literature reviewed offers valuable
insights into the kidnapping crisis in Nigeria, particularly regarding its
socio-economic, political, and policy aspects. However, key gaps remain, such
as the lack of in-depth research on victims' psychological experiences, the
limited focus on community-driven solutions, and the absence of more localized
policy recommendations. In response to these gaps, this study was designed to
explore the experiences of kidnapping victims in North-western Nigeria, with a
focus on how they were treated during captivity through the lens of Strain
Theory. It investigates the methods used by kidnappers, including their use of
motorcycles and advanced weapons, as well as the ransom demands they impose.
While the study is centered on Northwestern Nigeria, it does not delve into
broader social or economic factors behind kidnapping. Nonetheless, the research
is important as it sheds light on the risks faced by victims and their families
indicated the severe insecurity in the state. Theoretical Framework: Strain
Theory, Social Exchange Theory and Phenomenology
Strain theory was developed by sociologist
Robert K. Merton in the 1930s, posits that society prescribes certain goals and
acceptable means to achieve them (Merton, 1938). When individuals are unable to
attain these goals due to social and economic barriers, they experience strain,
which can lead to deviant behaviors, including crime (Agnew, 1992). Merton
identified five adaptations to strain: conformity, innovation, ritualism,
retreatism, and rebellion. The theory highlights the role of social factors like
poverty and unemployment in driving criminal behavior, making it particularly
relevant for understanding crimes such as kidnapping in economically
disadvantaged regions like Zamfara, Northwestern Nigeria. While Strain Theory
explains how unemployment and political instability create conditions conducive
to crime, it falls short in addressing the psychological experiences of victims
and the role of organized crime networks. Critics argue that it oversimplifies
the connection between strain and crime and does not account for why some
individuals do not engage in criminal behavior despite experiencing similar
social conditions.
Social Exchange Theory was introduced by
sociologists George Homans and Peter Blau, examines human interactions as
transactions where individuals aim to maximize rewards while minimizing costs
(Homans, 1961; Blau, 1964). It provides a lens for analyzing economic and
social interactions, including criminal activities such as ransom negotiations
in kidnapping cases. The theory elucidates the decision-making process for
families faced with ransom demands, weighing the emotional and financial costs
against the potential benefits of securing their loved ones' release. Despite
its strengths, Social Exchange Theory has limitations. It oversimplifies human
motivations by focusing primarily on cost-benefit analyses, neglecting
emotional, cultural, and psychological factors that influence decisions.
Moreover, it struggles to explain altruistic or community-driven responses to
crime, which are prevalent in regions with strong communal ties.
Phenomenology helps fill the gaps by focusing
on the personal experiences and feelings of victims. It is a way to understand
how people see and make sense of what happens to them. In the case of
kidnapping, it looks closely at victims’ emotions, how they cope, and the
mental effects of being held captive. It also shows how victims’ experiences
are shaped by their culture and society, giving a deeper understanding of their
pain and strength. By adding phenomenology to this study, we can better
understand the complex experiences of victims that other theories, like Strain
Theory and Social Exchange Theory, might miss. For example, it can highlight
the trauma, fear, and stigma victims feel during and after captivity, as well
as how their community helps them recover and fit back into society.
This study combines Strain Theory, Social Exchange
Theory, and Phenomenology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the
kidnapping crisis in Zamfara State, Northwestern Nigeria. Strain Theory
identifies the socio-economic drivers of kidnapping, while Social Exchange
Theory explores the dynamics of ransom negotiations. Phenomenology bridges the
gap by highlighting victims’ emotional and psychological experiences, offering
a holistic view of the kidnapping phenomenon. Together, these theories illuminate
the interplay between societal factors, individual behaviors, and the lived
experiences of victims, guiding the analysis of how kidnapping affects not only
the victims but also their families and communities. This integrated framework
aims to provide actionable insights into addressing the root causes of
kidnapping and supporting victims' recovery and reintegration.
Methodology
This study adopted a qualitative research
methodology to explore the lived experiences of kidnapping victims in Zamfara
State, particularly focusing on those released in 2023 for 26 participants. The
justification for using these participants are due to their experiences while
they were in captivity and at the same time they are the only respondents found
by the researchers during the study. The main objective was to investigate the
treatment victims endured during captivity, the operational methods employed by
kidnappers, and the dynamics of ransom negotiations. A combination of
purposive, accidental, and snowball sampling techniques was employed to recruit
participants. Purposive sampling ensured that only individuals with first-hand
experiences of kidnapping were included, it involved incorporating victims
encountered during data collection, broadening the scope of the study. Snowball
sampling proved critical in recruiting additional participants through
referrals from initial respondents, which was particularly useful for accessing
individuals in remote or hard-to-reach areas due to the sensitive nature of the
topic. This multifaceted approach enabled the researchers to capture a diverse
range of experiences from both urban and rural victims across Zamfara State in
North-western Nigeria. These include any victim found within the State directly
or through referral technique.
Data collection was conducted through
semi-structured to 26 participants in 6 month from 1st September,
2023 to 30th April, 2024, self-administered interviews, offering
flexibility while maintaining a focus on key themes such as kidnappers’
tactics, the treatment of victims, and the processes of ransom negotiation. The
interview sessions lasted for 35 minute averagely. Interviews were held in
private settings chosen by participants to ensure their comfort and security.
Full consent was obtained from all participants, with assurances of
confidentiality and the right to withdraw at any stage without consequences.
Sessions were audio-recorded, and participants were briefed about the study's
objectives, the voluntary nature of their involvement, and the measures in
place to protect their identities. The interview questions were intentionally
open-ended to encourage participants to recount their experiences in their own
words. This approach facilitated the collection of rich, detailed accounts,
providing deep insights into the emotional, psychological, and physical trauma
endured by victims. The semi-structured format also allowed for the emergence
of unanticipated themes, adding depth to the findings.
Ethical considerations were a cornerstone of
the research process. Beyond securing informed consent, the study prioritized
safeguarding participant confidentiality. All identifiable information was
anonymized, and participants were assured that their data would be used solely
for research purposes. Recognizing the sensitive and potentially traumatizing
nature of the topic, the research team underwent training in trauma-informed
interviewing techniques. This ensured that discussions were handled with care,
respect, and an emphasis on providing emotional support. Additionally,
provisions were made for follow-up support like counselling and medical
referral for participants who required further assistance after the interviews.
Data analysis involved verbatim transcription of audio recordings to capture
the full scope of participants' narratives accurately. Using thematic analysis,
the researchers systematically identified recurring themes and patterns,
manually coding the data to focus on the kidnappers' methods, victims'
treatment, and ransom negotiations. This thematic approach enabled a thorough
examination of individual experiences while allowing broader conclusions about
kidnapping operations in Zamfara State.
Despite its strengths, the study faced several
limitations. The reliance on participants who were accessible and willing to
share their experiences may have excluded victims with other differing vital
perspectives experience, potentially could limiting the diversity of the other
important findings. Additionally, reliance on self-reported data introduced the
possibility of recall bias, as participants recounted traumatic events that may
have affected the accuracy of their memories. The study's primary focus on
victims' treatment during captivity also left broader socio-economic and
political factors contributing to the rise in kidnappings underexplored.
Nevertheless, the study makes a significant contribution to the understanding
of the kidnapping crisis in Zamfara State. It illuminates the direct
experiences of victims, highlights the harrowing realities of their captivity,
and provides practical recommendations for addressing this pervasive issue.
Results
The study
reveals the systematic and organized nature of kidnapping operations in
North-western Nigeria particularly Zamfara State, marked by the use of large
groups, motorcycles for efficient movement, and advanced weaponry. The
treatment of victims by kidnappers was consistently harsh and intimidating. The
findings are presented thematically as follows:
Number of
Kidnappers and Vehicles
Kidnappers in
Zamfara State typically operated in large groups, employing motorcycles to
facilitate swift movements across the State. Participants frequently observed
that:
"Six motorcycles, each carrying four
people" and "more than twenty people" on motorcycles were
involved in various abductions (Male Adult, Single, Secondary Certificate, and
Okada Driver)
"Each of them had a motorcycle, totaling
eighteen” (Male Adult, Married, Secondary Certificate, and Canter Driver).
In Zamfara
State, kidnappers often operate in sizable, coordinated groups, utilizing
motorcycles for rapid mobility, with reports indicating groups of up to 24
people on multiple motorcycles, exemplifying both the high level of
organization and the logistical challenges in curtailing these activities.
These present significant challenges for security forces. Their ability to
navigate remote terrains with ease enhances evasion, while their logistical
coordination highlights the structured nature of their networks. This mobility
and organization overwhelm traditional law enforcement methods, necessitating
advanced counter-strategies like aerial surveillance and improved tracking
technologies. Additionally, the visible presence of such groups instills fear
in communities, undermining local resilience and socio-economic stability.
Addressing this requires targeted interventions, including enhanced
intelligence-gathering, rapid response measures, and tackling underlying
socio-economic drivers.
Weapons and
Threats
The kidnappers
were heavily armed with sophisticated weaponry, making their presence
formidable and intimidating:
They wielded automatic guns, with telescopic
sights… G3, G3 ordinary, AK 47, 48, 49" (Male Adult, Married, Primary
Certificate, and Cantre Driver).
They used sophisticated weapons that I have
never seen in my life with thousands ammunitions (Male Adult, Married,
Secondary Certificate, and Business Man).
The use of sophisticated weaponry, such as automatic guns with
telescopic sights, highlights the kidnappers' ability to exert overwhelming
dominance during abductions, instilling fear and ensuring compliance from
victims and communities. This formidable arsenal not only intimidates but also
poses heightened security challenges for law enforcement and local security
personnel, whose traditional methods may prove inadequate. The presence of
advanced firearms necessitates better training, equipment, and strategic
countermeasures to address the threat effectively. Furthermore, the display of
such weaponry contributes to widespread psychological and societal impacts,
creating an atmosphere of fear and undermining public trust in the state's
ability to provide security. The increased access to these firearms also raises
the potential for violent confrontations, both during abductions and in rescue
operations, risking further loss of life and collateral damage within
communities. Additionally, the availability of military-grade arms suggests the
involvement of organized supply chains and criminal networks, calling for
regional and international collaboration to curb arms trafficking and disrupt
the operational capabilities of these kidnapping syndicates.
Guarding and
Escape Prevention
Victims
described constant surveillance and strong deterrents against escape, as
kidnappers maintained strict guard and chained captives to restrict movement.
Respondents indicated:
The escape from the place is unrealistic,
except for instances of luck or unique circumstances” (Old Male, Married, no
formal education and a bus driver).
I was chained throughout" (Adult Male,
Married, no formal education and a farmer).
The strict surveillance and physical restraints
described by victims indicated the kidnappers' meticulous efforts to maintain
total control over their captives, significantly reducing the chances of
escape. Constant monitoring by guards ensures that victims have little to no
opportunity to plot or attempt an escape without detection. The use of chains
as a physical deterrent further reinforces this control, physically limiting
the movement of captives and instilling a sense of helplessness. These measures
demonstrate the kidnappers' reliance on psychological and physical dominance to
prevent resistance or escape.
The implications of such stringent control
measures are profound. For the victims, the experience is marked by profound
psychological trauma, as constant surveillance and restraint erode any sense of
personal agency and hope. This psychological toll can lead to long-term
emotional and mental health challenges, even after release. From a community
perspective, accounts of such harsh treatment spread fear and anxiety, further
undermining a sense of safety and trust within affected populations.
Additionally, these measures reflect the level of organization and operational
sophistication of the kidnappers, indicating that their methods are not
impulsive but part of a well-thought-out strategy to maintain power over their
victims. This level of control presents significant challenges for law
enforcement and rescue operations, as the physical and psychological restraints
imposed on victims make coordinated escapes or interventions extremely risky.
The situation underscores the need for specialized strategies, including
intelligence gathering and tactical planning, to safely address kidnapping
operations without further endangering victims.
Hostility and
Brutality
The kidnappers
frequently resorted to violence to ensure compliance and control, often
employing physical force and intimidation:
They beat me seriously" and "In our
presence, they brought a supposed gold miner… lashed him with a machete… he
shed tears" (Male Adult, Married, Primary Certificate, and Canter Driver).
The use of violence by kidnappers as a tool for control and
compliance has far-reaching psychological, social, and operational
implications. Victims’ accounts of brutal beatings and public displays of
violence, such as machete lashings, reveal a deliberate strategy to instill
fear and suppress resistance. This tactic not only causes severe psychological
trauma, including PTSD and anxiety, but also spreads fear within communities,
weakening trust and discouraging collective resistance. For law enforcement, the
brutality complicates rescue efforts, as the kidnappers' ruthlessness heightens
risks to victims. Additionally, these acts represent grave human rights
violations, underscoring the need for psychological support for victims,
strengthened community resilience, and enhanced security measures to address
the issue comprehensively.
Ransom Demands
and Detention Conditions
Victims were
held for ransom under severe and unhealthy conditions, receiving only minimal
food and water. Participants reported:
"They used to give us rice with Maggi and
palm oil only to cook" (Male Adult, Married, Secondary Certificate, and
Canter Driver).
“One plate is for about ten people” (Old Male,
Married, Primary Certificate, and Business Man).
“They were giving us half of the pure water
sachet, one piece of swallow worth N10 throughout a day” (Adult Male, Married,
Primary Certificate, and Canter Driver).
Kidnapping victims endure harsh and unhygienic conditions with
profound physical, psychological, and societal implications. Accounts of
minimal food portions, such as rice with Maggi and palm oil shared among large
groups, and water rations as small as half a sachet per day, reveal a
deliberate strategy by kidnappers to weaken captives physically and mentally.
This tactic increases victims' vulnerability and dependence, while intensifying
pressure on families and communities to pay ransoms. These conditions lead to
severe malnutrition, dehydration, and long-term health complications,
particularly for vulnerable groups, and contribute to significant psychological
distress, including trauma and anxiety. For families, the coercion exacerbates
emotional anguish and financial strain, perpetuating cycles of fear and
community destabilization. The poor health of victims upon rescue complicates
reintegration efforts, requiring specialized care and robust support systems.
These practices underscore the kidnappers’ blatant disregard for human rights,
highlighting the urgent need for stronger legal frameworks, targeted victim
support, and community resilience-building initiatives to address this
pervasive issue.
Discussion
The findings from this study on kidnapping
victims' experiences in Zamfara State align with and extend several points
raised in the literature on kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria, particularly in
the northwest region. The discussion of the systematic operations of kidnappers
in Zamfara resonates with the broader context provided by previous studies,
such as those by Olaniyan and Yahaya (2024) and Ngwama (2023), who highlight
how socio-economic pressures, including poverty and unemployment, contribute to
the rise of criminal activities, including kidnapping. These socio-economic
strains, combined with weak law enforcement and governance failures, provide
fertile ground for organized criminal networks to thrive. Furthermore, the
study’s findings on the use of advanced weaponry by kidnappers echo the work of
Bello and Waziri (2022), who noted the growing sophistication of criminal
organizations involved in kidnapping. The presence of weapons like G3 rifles
and AK-47s amplifies the violence and control kidnappers exercise over their
victims, aligning with Nwankwo and Yusuf’s (2022) assertion that the lack of
state control in the northwest exacerbates these criminal activities. This use
of weapons to ensure compliance and suppress escape attempts mirrors the violent
methods described by the literature, further underlining the need for stronger
law enforcement and military intervention in the region.
The detailed accounts of the control and
treatment of victims in this study, where captives are often chained and
subjected to severe beatings, reinforce the idea of "cost-benefit"
analysis presented in Social Exchange Theory. This economic logic, as described
by Homans (1961) and Blau (1964), suggests that kidnappers calculate the
potential gains from ransom against the cost of maintaining control over
victims. The withholding of food and water, as a tactic to increase the
psychological and physical toll on victims, further validates this theory and
echoes findings by Bello and Waziri (2022), who suggest that kidnappers’
economic desperation, influenced by political instability, drives such inhumane
practices.In terms of policy implications, this study concurs with Onyia et al.
(2024), who critically examined the failure of the amnesty program in
addressing banditry in the region. The study's findings on the inadequacies of
current government efforts, including the amnesty program and military
interventions, underscore the need for more strategic and comprehensive
approaches. This resonates with the conclusions drawn by Tomassini (2024) and
Ashibi and Akintujoye (2024), who highlight the need for a more robust military
approach and enhanced governance to combat organized kidnapping and banditry
effectively.
However, the study also acknowledges its
limitations, such as the narrow regional focus and reliance on self-reported
data. While it provides valuable insights into victims' experiences, the study
could be strengthened by exploring the broader socio-economic and political
drivers of kidnapping. This aligns with the recommendations from previous
studies (e.g., Ojo et al., 2023; Utibe & Ogundiya, 2024) for more
comprehensive research that integrates socio-economic factors and political
analysis to provide a deeper understanding of the kidnapping crisis in
Nigeria.Finally, the study calls for targeted government action to address the
growing threat of organized kidnapping networks. This aligns with the
conclusions of Olaniyan and Yahaya (2024) and Saminu and Mohammed (2022), who
emphasize the role of governance failures in exacerbating the kidnapping
problem. As the study suggests, future research should explore the motivations
and networks of kidnappers, as well as the role of local actors in prevention
and recovery, to offer a more holistic approach to tackling this pressing
issue.
Conclusion
This study underscores the severe security
crisis in North-western Nigeria particularly in Zamfara State, where kidnapping
has evolved into an organized and violent industry, driven by socio-economic
pressures and facilitated by advanced weaponry and strategic ransom operations.
Through Strain and Social Exchange Theory, this research reveals the
socio-economic and psychological mechanisms that fuel these criminal
activities. Factors such as poverty, unemployment, and insufficient law
enforcement create fertile ground for kidnapping networks, which rely on
calculated cost-benefit strategies to maximize ransom and control victims while
reducing the risk of escape. Cultural and ethnic dynamics further complicate
this issue, with kidnappers often using Fulani and Hausa languages,
highlighting the intricate social layers within these operations.
The findings stress the urgent need for a
multifaceted governmental response to address both immediate security concerns
and root socio-economic causes. Effective interventions should include
strengthening law enforcement, employing technology for tracking and detection,
and implementing policies that address poverty and unemployment. These actions
are critical for dismantling kidnapping networks, enhancing regional security,
and restoring peace to the affected communities in North-western Nigeria.
Recommendations
Strengthen Law
Enforcement
To effectively
combat organized kidnapping in Zamfara State, it is essential to strengthen law
enforcement agencies. This involves collaboration between government agencies,
law enforcement bodies, and training institutions. The primary focus should be
on law enforcement centres within North-western Nigeria. Key implementation
strategies include developing specialized training programmes for police and
military personnel that emphasize counter-kidnapping strategies, community
policing, and negotiation techniques. Additionally, increasing funding for law
enforcement agencies will allow for the procurement of advanced technology,
such as drones and GPS systems, which are crucial for surveillance and tracking
of suspicious activities. Furthermore, regulations should be implemented
requiring the registration and tracking of motorcycles, commonly utilized by
kidnappers, to facilitate easier tracing of criminal movements.
Address
Socio-Economic Drivers
Another
critical area of focus is addressing the socio-economic drivers that contribute
to the rise of kidnapping. Local Government Authorities, NGOs, and community
organizations should collaborate to launch community development programmes
aimed at skill development and vocational training, thereby enhancing
employment opportunities for youth in regions most affected by kidnapping. Job
creation initiatives are essential, and partnerships with the private sector
can foster employment, particularly in agriculture and small businesses. These
initiatives aimed to reduce poverty and provide viable alternatives to
individuals who may be tempted to join criminal networks. Additionally,
establishing mentorship programmes for at-risk youth can connect them with successful
role models, further deterring involvement in criminal activities.
Enhance
Community Engagement
Enhancing
community engagement is crucial in the fight against kidnapping. Community
leaders, Local Governments, and NGOs should work together to engage affected
communities, particularly those with significant Fulani and Hausa populations.
This can be achieved through organizing community workshops and forums that
facilitate discussions among local leaders regarding the impacts of kidnapping
and potential solutions. Initiatives that respect cultural values must be
developed to foster community cooperation in reporting criminal activities.
Moreover, providing conflict resolution training for community leaders can help
foster peaceful solutions to grievances that might lead to criminal behaviour,
ultimately contributing to a more cohesive and resilient community.
Develop
Victims’ Support Programs
Establishing
victim support programs is vital to assist survivors of kidnapping in
reintegrating into society. Health and social service organizations, Local
Governments, and NGOs should focus their efforts in areas with high incidences
of kidnapping. Trauma-informed care services must be established to provide
psychological support and counseling for survivors. Rehabilitation programmes
should also be created to help victims resume their lives, including job
training, educational opportunities, and family counseling. Raising awareness
within communities about the challenges faced by survivors is equally important
to foster acceptance and support for these individuals, contributing to their
healing process.
Implement
Policy Reforms for Ransom Prevention
Finally, the
implementation of policy reforms aimed at preventing ransom payments is
critical. Government policy makers and legislative bodies should develop laws
that criminalize ransom payments and provide clear guidelines for families on
how to respond in the event of a kidnapping. Support systems for families of
victims need to be created, offering financial aid and psychological support to
help them resist ransom demands. Additionally, public awareness campaigns
should be launched to educate the public about the dangers associated with
paying ransoms and to promote community vigilance against kidnappers. By
addressing these multifaceted issues, stakeholders can work towards dismantling
the kidnapping networks and fostering a safer environment in the North.
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