This report delves into the alarming rise of school abductions in Nigeria, tracing the motivations behind these attacks from terror and extortion to survival and power struggles. It analyzes the role of various actors, including terrorist groups, bandits, and criminal networks, highlighting the lucrative nature of this enterprise and the devastating impact on the education system.
SPECIAL REPORT: Manhole cover thieves expose security lapses in Nigeria’s National Assembly complexSPECIAL REPORT: Worksite crèches empower Nigerian women to balance careers, motherhoodOf Nuhu Ribadu and Naja’atu Muhammad: Hassada or much ado about nothing?, By Umar YakubuThe role of faith-based organisations in climate advocacy, By Mohammed Dahiru AminuINVESTIGATION: How big businesses, individuals deplete Nigeria’s protected forestsSPECIAL REPORT: Nigerians with albinism dying of skin...
While Boko Haram primarily employs abductions as a tool of terror and intimidation, groups like ISWAP and ANSARU – with their sophisticated organisational structures – kidnap for strategic objectives. These might include generating revenue through ransom demands or bolstering their influence and power.
Resistance is met with deadly force, as students, teachers and staff are forced to march from the school premises, or loaded onto waiting vehicles. Victims are transported to remote hideouts in dense forests, mountainous regions or abandoned settlements, which security forces struggle to access, making rescue efforts difficult.
Funds are usually delivered through informal channels, including cash handovers, hawala and intermediaries, to ensure anonymity and security. Intelligence-led rescue operations have occasionally secured students’ release, but limited resources, poor coordination and difficult terrain hinder their success, especially in remote areas where abductions are frequent.Nigeria’s kidnapping crisis persists not due to a lack of federal and state anti-kidnapping laws, but their weak enforcement. A greater focus on tackling systemic problems that enable banditry and preventive security measures is critical.
KIDNAPPINGS NIGERIA EDUCATION TERRORISM CRIME
Nigeria Latest News, Nigeria Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Nigeria Police Arrest Two Suspects in Retired AIG's Wife KidnappingThe Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has apprehended two suspects, Agbojule Smart and Keleke Michael, in connection with the kidnapping of Hakeem Odumosu's wife. The suspects were arrested while attempting to flee Lagos state and confessed to their involvement in the abduction. Police recovered ransom money, firearms, and ammunition during the arrest.
Read more »
NSCDC Arrests Suspects Linked to Banditry, Kidnapping, and Fraud in NigeriaThe Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended four individuals suspected of involvement in banditry, kidnapping, fraud, and job racketeering. The arrests, made by the NSCDC's Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, include three suspects found in possession of various firearms and a 62-year-old man accused of creating and distributing fraudulent job appointment letters for the NSCDC.
Read more »
Nigeria Records 16.3% Decrease in Kidnapping Incidents in 2024Despite a slight increase in incidents, Nigeria saw a 16.3% decrease in kidnapping for ransom in 2024 compared to 2023. The National Counter Terrorism Centre attributes the success to government efforts, including the rescue of hostages and the neutralization of kidnappers. However, the threat persists, fueled by ransom payments and socioeconomic vulnerabilities.
Read more »
Kidnapping in Nigeria: A Lucrative Franchise, Says Former DSS DGMike Ejiofor, a former Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), has labeled kidnapping a thriving enterprise in Nigeria. He argues that the rise in abductions stems from individuals viewing it as a profitable money-making scheme. Ejiofor highlighted the vulnerability of politicians, community leaders, and religious figures to this growing threat.
Read more »
Nigeria to Scrap Secondary Schools, Introduce 12-Year Basic Education SystemThe Nigerian government proposes phasing out the existing 6-3-3-4 education model and replacing it with a 12-year basic education system. The move aims to align Nigerian education with global standards, reduce dropout rates, and equip young people with relevant skills.
Read more »
Nigeria's Wealth Gap Reaches Crisis Point, Oxfam WarnsOxfam Nigeria warns that the wealth gap in Nigeria has reached crisis levels, with 70% of the population facing hunger. The report highlights the growing wealth of billionaires and calls for government action to reduce inequality and invest in essential services.
Read more »