EXAMINATION OF RECURRENT KIDNAPPING PLATEAU AND ITS IMPLICATIONS IN STATE: A CASE STUDY OF BASSA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

Nigeria’s security landscape has become increasingly unstable and unpredictable in recent years. Reports reveal a steady rise in incidents of kidnapping across the country; however, it is important to emphasize that the recorded figures only represent a fraction of the actual occurrences (Ojo et al., 2023). The northern region, in particular, has been gripped by widespread insecurity, with kidnapping becoming a common menace. For instance, in Niger State’s Munya Local Government Area (LGA), bandits attacked several communities on March 17, 2023, resulting in the deaths of four military officers and three vigilante members (Abdulkabir, 2017). On May 11, 2023, about 40 worshippers were abducted during a church service in Kaduna, as reported by Hassan-Wuyo (2023). Similarly, gunmen stormed Paikoro and Munya LGAs in Niger State, killing a village head and a medical doctor, while abducting over 120 individuals, including women and children (Mosadomi, 2023). As such, kidnapping has become a prominent manifestation of the broader insecurity crisis in Nigeria. According to the United Nations’ 2016 kidnapping index, different global regions have recorded varying kidnapping rates: Europe/Central Asia experienced 82% adult and 16% child kidnappings; the Americas recorded 73% adults and 27% children; Southeast Asia/Pacific had 61% adults and 39% children. Africa, however, saw 32% adult and a significantly higher 68% child abduction rate (cited in Odey, 2017). In Nigeria, then Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, estimated annual kidnapping figures to be between 685 and 900 victims across the country. Although most common in the northeastern states—accounting for nearly 79.8% of cases—the phenomenon has expanded to other regions nationwide (Toromade, 2019). The growing concern over kidnapping has sparked widespread attention both locally and globally. Academics have raised alarm over the alarming rate of mass abductions, particularly from schools and universities. Though the practice of kidnapping affects both developed and developing countries today, it is not a new phenomenon. The word "kidnapping" itself dates back to 1673 and is thought to derive from the combination of “kid” (child) and “nap” (to snatch), originally used to describe the abduction of children for forced labor in the American colonies (Ezemenaka, 2018). In modern times, the scope of kidnapping has broadened to include the unlawful abduction or confinement of individuals of all ages, against their will. In the Nigerian context, while there is no definitive historical record pinpointing the exact origin of kidnapping, it is certainly not a recent development. Akpan (2017) pointed out that in the 19th century, Nigeria’s slave trade era was marked by raids, piracy, abductions, and kidnappings, particularly targeting strong men for slavery. Unfortunately, this trend has persisted in different forms. Kidnapping gained renewed national attention in 2006 when militants in the Niger Delta began abducting oil workers—mostly foreigners—in an effort to draw global focus to the region’s socio-economic plight (Oyemwinmin & Osazuwa, 2016). Today, both local and foreign individuals are routinely targeted. The frequency of kidnapping incidents has surged over time, with documented cases indicating that the return of democratic governance may have triggered politically motivated abductions. A notable example is the abduction of Chris Ngige, the then-Governor of Anambra State (now Minister of Labour and Employment), in 2003. His case reflects how kidnapping has at times been used as a political tool (Jeribe & Nlemchukwu, 2016). Researchers widely believe that kidnapping often serves various strategic purposes. These include financial gain, political leverage, ritual sacrifices, and competitive advantage in rivalries. Political actors, for instance, may exploit vulnerable and unemployed youth to kidnap opponents or suppress dissent. On the other hand, some individuals are driven by the demand for human body parts for spiritual purposes—such as rituals for power, protection, or wealth (Abdulkabir, 2017). Despite its inhumane and destructive nature, kidnapping continues to spread across every part of Nigeria. It has now evolved into a serious national crisis, attracting the attention of policy-makers, non-governmental organizations, religious and political leaders, and all stakeholders invested in national development (Jeribe & Nlemchukwu, 2016). This study, therefore, seeks to explore the issue of kidnapping in Plateau State, with a particular focus on Bassa Local Government Area. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Kidnapping, though a temporary ordeal for its victims, often results in their subjugation and psychological trauma. However, research shows that numerous underlying causes—such as economic hardship, political motives, cultural factors, poverty, and unemployment—have contributed to its growing prevalence. Abdulkabir (2017) highlights how these socio-economic pressures may be driving the rise in abduction incidents across Nigeria. In Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, kidnapping has emerged as a serious threat to peace, stability, and coexistence among residents. The problem is no longer confined to a particular demographic or social class—it cuts across age, gender, status, profession, and even nationality. Victims include residents and visitors, the rich and poor, the educated and uneducated, public officials and civilians, and even members of law enforcement. Historically, kidnappers targeted the wealthy or influential. Today, no group is exempt from the threat. The diversity of victims reflects the evolving nature of kidnapping patterns in the country (Igwe, 2018). There is now growing concern about the changing dynamics and methods employed by kidnappers. The consequences are far-reaching—victims often endure intense psychological stress, physical injuries, and isolation, while their families suffer emotionally, financially, and mentally. The uncertainty of the victim’s fate—whether they will be released, harmed, or killed—adds to the suffering. Beyond individual impact, entire communities experience collective trauma. Kidnapping weakens the bonds of trust and hampers social interaction, with residents living in constant fear. In areas plagued by frequent abductions, public activities diminish, and normal social life becomes difficult. This leads to heightened vigilance and a loss of community cohesion. In recent times, the escalation in kidnapping cases has created widespread anxiety among the public and authorities, as the threat grows more unpredictable and widespread. Despite attempts by both the federal and state governments to curb the menace—using both military and non-violent measures—these strategies have largely proven ineffective in Plateau State (Akpan, 2017). Thus, this study aims to investigate the persistent issue of kidnapping in Plateau State, with a specific focus on Bassa Local Government Area.. 1.3 Research questions The following questions have been prepared to guide the study i. What is the prevalence of kidnapping in Bassa Local Government, Plateau State Nigeria? ii. What are the factors responsible for kidnapping in Bassa local government area, Plateau Nigeria? iii. What is the effect of kidnapping on the socio-economic development of Bassa local government area, Plateau Nigeria? iv. What are government and security agencies response to kidnapping in Bassa local government area, Plateau Nigeria? 1.4 Research objectives The broad objective of the study is examine Kidnapping and Its Implications in Plateau State: A Case Study of Bassa Local Government Area. The specific objectives is as follows i. To examine the prevalence of kidnapping in Bassa Local Government, Plateau State Nigeria. ii. To assess the factors responsible for kidnapping in Bassa local government area, Plateau Nigeria. iii. To investigate the effect of kidnapping on the socio-economic development of Bassa local government area, Plateau Nigeria. iv. To ascertain government and security agencies response to kidnapping in Bassa local government area, Plateau Nigeria. 1.5 Significance of the study The issue of kidnapping could be relatively new to Nigeria compared to other countries. This therefore poses a great challenge to the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in its combating of crime and maintaining national security. This paper therefore will be beneficial to the government of Nigeria in putting in place machineries to fight against this menace. It will also be beneficial to security agencies who are directly or indirectly involved in curbing the problem of kidnapping in the country. This study will also add to the existing literature and body of knowledge on the topical issue of kidnapping as it relates to the issue of national security especially in Nigeria. It will also be a reference material for subsequent research work. 1.6 Scope of the study Generally, the study focuses on kidnapping in plateau state: a case study of Bassa local government area. Empirically, the study will examine the prevalence of kidnapping in Bassa Local Government, Plateau State Nigeria, assess the factors responsible for kidnapping in Bassa local government area, Plateau Nigeria, investigate the effect of kidnapping on the socio-economic development of Bassa local government area, Plateau Nigeria and ascertain government and security agencies response to kidnapping in Bassa local government area, Plateau Nigeria. 1.7 Research Methodology Research methodology deals with the different ways or methods the researcher applied in order to carry out the research as well as the instrument used for gathering the data. There are several research methodologies appropriate for answering the research questions. The type of research methodology used in this research to gather data and relevant information is the historical research and the study will adopt descriptive method of data collection. This will involve the collection of materials from secondary sources, such as books, journal articles, magazines, internet sources, international and national conference proceedings, published and unpublished articles. 1.8 Definition of terms Kidnapping: The illegal act of forcefully capturing, detaining, and holding an individual against their will, often for ransom or other demands, with the intention of extracting concessions, financial gain, or exerting control over the victim. Plateau State: A state located in the central region of Nigeria, known for its diverse ethnic groups, scenic landscapes, and agricultural activities. Its capital is Jos. Bassa Local Government Area: One of the local government areas (LGAs) in Plateau State, Nigeria. It encompasses a specific geographical area within Plateau State and is governed by local administrative authorities.