Group Links Kidnapping, Banditry To Corruption, Hardship

Promoters of One Nigeria Ambassadors Club (PRONIG) have identified corruption and worsening socioeconomic conditions of most Nigerians as reasons for the rise in kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes.

The group’s head, Dr. Edache Adigwu, warned that it was high time the government stopped the waste of resources and channel its spending to address the pressing needs of Nigerians

In a statement he issued in Abuja yesterday, Adigwu expressed concern over the kidnap of 15 persons on January 6 and 7, 2024, in Zuma 1 and Sagwari Layout Estate in Dutse, all in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The group advised that particular attention should be paid to the security of life and property, which is the primary business of the government.

Adigwu said, “Nigerians have lost hope in their daily survival, so we should shift from the rhetoric of “antiquated” or “renewed” hope because none exists for a people who are not secured both physically and socioeconomically.

“Nigeria is under a serious and catastrophic Security Epidemic which is threatening the foundation and pillars of the country’s existence and has left the entire citizenry apprehensive, endangered and helpless.

“The situation is dire, and was for long being addressed with rhetoric rather than confidence-building efforts. There is a suffocating pervading hopelessness on this issue and we cannot be shy or pretentious in the face of the obvious. In the last two decades, we have been faced with different kinds of security threats which have moved from an arithmetic progression to a geometric one.”

The group said the renewed efforts by the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) of the Nigeria Police to stem the tide of kidnapping and banditry in the polity was reactionary.

“There has to be a sustainable security plan in place to safeguard Nigerians. We are ready to support and partner with the government on any good and productive measure or initiative it may be taking or introducing to address insecurity since we also understand that security is a collective business and responsibility. Our charge is for the government to lead the way in a profound manner,” he said.