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THE IMPACT OF KIDNAPPING ON SECURITY AND THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF NIGERIA: A STUDY OF FCT, ABUJA

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THE IMPACT OF KIDNAPPING ON SECURITY AND THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF NIGERIA: A STUDY OF FCT, ABUJA

ABSTRACT

This study investigates “The Impact of Kidnapping on Security and Socio-Economic Development in Nigeria,” with a specific focus on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The research identifies and analyzes the major findings across various dimensions related to kidnapping and its consequences in the region. In the examination of the causes of kidnapping, it is observed that kidnapping activities in FCT, Abuja, result from a combination of diverse factors such as agitation stemming from oppression and exploitation, the proliferation of arms, abandonment of political thugs, the pursuit of quick wealth without legitimate work, prior ransom payments, poor parental upbringing, youth unemployment, moral decay over time, illiteracy, greed, and political motivations. The economic impact of kidnapping is substantial and far-reaching. Kidnapping also has indirect socio-economic and cultural impacts in FCT, Abuja. Social gatherings have diminished, academic activities have suffered, and worshippers feel increasingly unsafe attending religious events. Small businesses are shutting down due to the kidnapping activities, and there is a general decline in health services. To mitigate the impact of kidnapping activities, the study suggest that there should be increase in security checkpoints, providing the police force with more sophisticated arms, promoting dialogue and amnesty for willing participants, fostering sincerity among stakeholders, compensating affected individuals and businesses, reorienting society regarding norms and values, abolishing ransom payments, prosecuting kidnappers, and changing residents’ attitudes toward security matters.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1       Background of the Study

The current state of insecurity in the country has presented a huge problem for the country’s security architecture, which is why it requires further disclosure to address the new trend in violent criminal attacks in Nigeria. The duplication of banditry and terrorist attacks in Nigeria has not only placed a huge financial burden on fiscal policy but has also forced an increment in the national government’s security expenditure, Nwangwu & Ononogbu, (2014). Attacks have taken on a national dimension because kidnapping and banditry are now occurring in every region of the country, threatening both investment and lives.  Attacks take place daily in Nigeria, making this article a necessity for the country. For example, on May 8th, Anambra state police discovered a kidnapped Imo businessman dead after paying the N10 million ransom; also on May 11th, an APC presidential campaign council member was shot and killed; and on May 16th, 2023, while, gunmen operating in Plateau State kill 29 people, as reported on Punch News Online (Sulaimon, 2023; Obianeri, 2023; Abraham, 2023).

Security plays a crucial role in defining the socioeconomic condition and growth of any society.

Kidnapping is the wholesale taking away of person against the persons’ will usually to hold or confine the person in false imprisonment without legal authority. This may be done for ransom or in furtherance of another crime, or in connection with a child custody dispute (Ottuh & Aitufe, 2014). Kidnapping is the crime of seizing, confining, abducting, transporting and carrying away of a person by force and sometimes subject him or her to involuntary servitude in an attempt to demand for ransom (Ottuh & Aitufe, 2014; Dodo, 2010). Kidnapping is a common law offence requiring that one person takes or carries another away by force or through fraud without lawful excuse. It is the common law offence of intentionally or recklessly detaining the victim without lawful authority (Lewis & Nazer, 2002).

There are series of media reports of daily incidents of kidnapping in most Nigeria cities. In Nigeria, it drew public attention from 2006 when militants in the Niger-Delta started kidnapping expatriates for ransom. Today in Nigeria, its a daily occurrence particularly the Niger Delta area of Cross River State (Dodo, 2010; Ottuh & Aitufe, 2014). It has become a national problem that has eaten so deep into the fabric of the nation. The widening scale of kidnapping in Nigeria is a cause for concern as everybody is affected by it directly or indirectly, highway, schools, homes, markets, churches, mosques, hostels, night clubs, wedding reception etc. are all susceptible to kidnapping (Dodo, 2010; Ngwama, 2014).

The global system of mobile communication (GSM) provides the mechanism through which kidnappers use in communicating and negotiating with relations of the kidnapped victims to obtained ransom for freedom. Sometimes, the criminals collect the money and still kill their victims especially if the victim(s) recognized the kidnappers thereby impoverishing the economy by scaring away both local and foreign investors (Udoh, 2012). This has negatively affected socioeconomic development and also increased other social vices in Nigeria (Okorie-Ajah, Nwokeoma & Okpan, 2018). Kidnapping is an offence that is punishable by law in Nigeria. The legal provision is that anybody involved in this act is to face a penalty of 10 years imprisonment. Some states in Nigeria like Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Imo and Rivers have all passed into law in a bill term “Prohibition of Hostage Taking and Related Offences Law”, with death penalty as punishment for offenders (Inyang, 2009; Ekpe, 2009; cited in Inyang & Ubong, 2013). Kidnapping in Calabar Metropolis takes the forms of seizing, detaining, unlawful, force or fraud and remove a person to an undisclosed location against his or her will and usually for use as a hostage to collect ransom (Umoren, 2009; cited in Udoh, 2012). In Nigeria generally and Calabar Metropolis in Cross River State in particular, it has become a life threatening ailment, and a critical variable vitiating national development (Dodo, 2010).

A nation’s ineffectiveness in handling its internal security structures not only invites crime and chaos but also hinders growth, prosperity, collaboration, and togetherness. Peace, tolerance, and thus an improved standard of living are brought about when the appropriate authority is able to reduce crime in society, (Egbegi, et al.,2018; Verwimp et al., 2019). That’s why, despite the challenges of COVID and the Russia-Ukraine war, the majority of industrialized nations continue to prosper and grow rapidly. This is due to the fact that no community is impervious to crime, but through policy and determination of the government it becomes seemingly impossible for crime to thrive.

Security is an important factor that informs investment destinations for investors and businesses; nothing thrives in a hostile environment, (Verwimp et al., 2019; Imhonopi & Urim, 2016). This is because investing in a hostile environment will lead to a waste of national resources and investments. Governments all over the world prioritize the security of their people, properties,  and investments. This is why citizens periodically vote for leaders with the capacity to protect and defend the territorial integrity of their nations. In contrast, the Nigerian government and its security machinery have left its citizens rather confused as far as the security of their lives and properties are concerned. The recent increase in kidnappings, armed bandits, and terrorist attacks in Nigeria has resulted in numerous exterminations, killings, and destructions of property and investments, (Ojo, et al., 2023).  It Is against this background that this study seek to examine the impact of kidnapping on security and the socio-economic development of Nigeria: A study of FCT, Abuja

1.2       Statement of the Problem

Kidnapping has emerged as a menacing issue in Nigeria, casting a long shadow over the nation’s security and socio-economic development. This study investigates the profound impact of kidnapping within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, which serves as a microcosm of the broader Nigerian context. Kidnapping has become a matter of grave concern, and its consequences extend beyond immediate security challenges to deeply affect the socio-economic fabric of the nation. As the capital city, FCT, Abuja, stands as a critical location for understanding the dynamics of this issue and its far-reaching repercussions.

One of the primary aspects of the problem is the dire security implications of kidnapping. The increase in kidnapping cases has resulted in a palpable sense of insecurity among the residents and visitors to the FCT, Abuja. The inability of law enforcement agencies to effectively curb this menace has further eroded public trust in the security apparatus. This situation not only endangers individual safety but also hampers broader social and economic activities, hindering the stability of the FCT.

Kidnapping’s socio-economic impact forms another critical facet of this problem. The disruptions caused by kidnapping incidents have far-reaching consequences. Individuals and families who fall victim to kidnappings suffer emotional trauma and distress, leading to a decline in their overall quality of life. On a larger scale, businesses and foreign investments in the FCT and Nigeria at large face considerable deterrents due to the insecurity associated with kidnapping. This hampers economic growth, exacerbates unemployment, and diverts resources that could otherwise be invested in development initiatives toward security measures.

Kidnapping does not just affect the individuals directly involved; it has a ripple effect on the broader community. The psychological trauma endured by victims and their families can have long-lasting consequences on mental health and overall well-being. Moreover, the culture of fear that kidnapping fosters in communities leads to a decline in social cohesion, trust, and community development. Public gatherings, tourism, and cultural activities often see a reduction as people become increasingly reluctant to engage in social activities, thereby undermining the social fabric of the region.

Understanding the complex problem of kidnapping in FCT, Abuja, is pivotal for Nigeria’s security and socio-economic development. This study seeks to provide critical insights into the multi-dimensional impact of kidnapping, guiding policymakers, security agencies, and stakeholders in formulating effective strategies to address this pressing issue. The findings have the potential to foster a safer and more conducive environment for business, investments, and community life in the FCT and Nigeria as a whole, thereby contributing to sustainable socio-economic development and enhanced security in the region.

1.3       Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to examine the impact of kidnapping on security and the socio-economic development of Nigeria: A Study of FCT Abuja.

This study is guided by the following specific objectives.

  1. Identify the causes of kidnapping in FCT Abuja
  2. To determine the causes of kidnapping in FCT Abuja
  3. To Suggest ways of reducing kidnapping and its socio-economic impact

1.4       Research Questions

  1. What are the causes of kidnapping in FCT Abuja?
  2. What are the causes of kidnapping in FCT Abuja?
  3. What are the possible ways of reducing kidnapping and its socio-economic impact?
    1.       Significance of the study

The significance of the study on “The Impact of Kidnapping on Security and Socio-Economic Development in Nigeria: A Study of FCT, Abuja” is multifaceted and holds crucial implications for various stakeholders. The following are the significance of this research:

Policy Formulation and Implementation: The findings from this study can inform and guide the development of policies and strategies aimed at addressing the critical issue of kidnapping in Nigeria. Policymakers can use the insights to create more effective security measures and initiatives to combat this menace.

Enhanced Security: Understanding the dynamics of kidnapping and its specific impact on FCT, Abuja, can help security agencies adapt and strengthen their approaches. This knowledge can lead to more proactive and targeted law enforcement efforts, potentially reducing the incidence of kidnappings and improving overall security.

Economic Growth and Investment: Kidnapping acts as a deterrent to both local and foreign investments, which are vital for economic growth. By examining the socio-economic consequences of kidnapping, this study can help attract more investments and foster economic development in the FCT and Nigeria as a whole.

Research and Academic Contributions: This study adds to the existing body of knowledge on the impact of crime on security and socio-economic development. It can serve as a reference for future research, policy development, and academic work on the subject.

1.6       Scope of the Study

The scope of this study is limited to the examination of the impact of kidnapping on security and the socio-economic development of Nigeria. The study is also limited to the Federal Capital Territory Abuja.

1.7       Operational definition of Terms

To ensure clarity and precision in your research on “The Impact of Kidnapping on Security and Socio-Economic Development in Nigeria: A Study of FCT, Abuja,” it is essential to provide definitions for key terms and concepts used in the study. The following are definitions for some of the critical terms:

Kidnapping: Kidnapping refers to the unlawful act of taking a person or persons against their will, often for ransom, personal gain, or other illicit motives. It involves the abduction, detention, or restraint of an individual without their consent.

Security: Security encompasses the measures, practices, and conditions that protect individuals, communities, and assets from threats, risks, and harm. In this context, it refers to the state of being free from kidnapping and related security threats.

Socio-Economic Development: Socio-economic development refers to the process of improving the overall well-being, living standards, and economic conditions of a society. It includes advancements in areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, employment, income distribution, and overall quality of life.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja: The FCT, Abuja, is the capital region of Nigeria, distinct from the country’s states. It is the political and administrative center where the federal government is located. In this study, FCT, Abuja, is the specific geographical area under investigation.

Law Enforcement Agencies: These are government entities responsible for maintaining law and order, investigating and preventing crimes, and ensuring public safety. In the context of this research, law enforcement agencies include the Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant security institutions.

Emotional Distress: Emotional distress refers to psychological suffering, anxiety, and anguish experienced by individuals as a result of traumatic events, such as being victims of kidnapping or living in fear of such incidents.

Foreign Investments: Foreign investments involve the allocation of capital, resources, or assets from individuals, organizations, or governments located outside Nigeria into the country’s economy. These investments can take various forms, including foreign direct investment (FDI) or foreign portfolio investment.

Community Development: Community development involves initiatives and activities aimed at improving the well-being, infrastructure, and overall quality of life within a community or locality. It may include projects related to education, healthcare, social services, and economic development.

Social Cohesion: Social cohesion refers to the level of unity, trust, and mutual support within a community or society. It reflects the strength of interpersonal relationships, social bonds, and the sense of belonging among individuals and groups within a community.

Mental Health Services: Mental health services encompass a range of professional and community-based resources and interventions aimed at promoting mental well-being, preventing mental health issues, and providing treatment and support to individuals experiencing psychological distress or disorders.

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 SOLD BY: Excellent Project| ATTRIBUTES: Title, Abstract, Chapter 1-5 and
Appendices|FORMAT: Microsoft Word| PRICE: N5000| BUY NOW |DELIVERY
TIME
: Within 24hrs. For more details Chatt with us on WHATSAPP @ https://wa.me/2348055730284