The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has reported that Nigerians paid a staggering N2.23 trillion as ransom between May 2023 and April 2024, highlighting the increasing threat of kidnapping and crime across the country.
The NBS’s Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey revealed that approximately 51.89 million crime incidents occurred within Nigerian households during the period, with the North-West region recording the highest number of incidents at 14.4 million. The South-East region reported the lowest, with 6.18 million cases.
In response to the growing insecurity, several states have intensified efforts to improve safety. Kano State recruited 2,500 private security personnel, Zamfara set up 3,969 Community Protection Guards, and Kogi engaged 3,000 personnel to combat banditry and other crimes. Additionally, local vigilante groups have been instrumental in providing support to law enforcement, particularly in rural areas.
Despite these efforts, the survey also indicated a lack of confidence in police effectiveness, with many victims citing a low belief in meaningful action. Only 36.3% of households affected by home robberies reported incidents to the police, and even fewer reported kidnappings. Among those affected by kidnappings, 65% paid an average ransom of N2.67 million.
The survey also highlighted that rural areas were more vulnerable to crime, with 26.53 million incidents reported compared to 25.36 million in urban areas. Public perception of safety remains low, with 9.6% of Nigerians fearing they could become crime victims in the next year.
While many continue to rely on local vigilante groups for security, the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security agencies, particularly the police, is under scrutiny, with low satisfaction rates regarding police responses.
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