A public policy advisory group, Nextier, has stated that kidnapping in Nigeria is a multipurpose criminality, stating that it could be tackled by combative and non-combative efforts.
The group emphasised that the government must analyse and address historical injustices, economic inequalities, political marginalisation, and lack of trust in government institutions that fuel separatist sentiments.
These calls were made in Nextier’s Nigeria Violent Conflict Database and were presented by the group’s senior policy and research analyst, Kenneth Maduagwu, in Abuja on Wednesday.
Dr Ndubuisi Nwokwlo, a partner at Nextier, urged the government to highlight shared values, history, and cultural diversity through education, public discourse, and community engagement to encourage nation-building.
He emphasised the need for state and federal institutions to collaborate in crAAeating employment opportunities and addressing other socio-economic issues driving people to engage in violent conflict.
Nwokwlo stressed that the government should enhance socio-economic development by strategically investing in education, job creation, and poverty reduction initiatives, especially in regions identified as high-risk.
“Such investments mitigate the underlying grievances that often drive individuals to criminality. This can begin through good governance and the provision of dividends of democracy.
“Proactive and cooperative partnerships between the police and the community to aid intelligence gathering and apprehension of bandits and other armed groups are paramount,” he said.
Nwokwlo noted the necessity for increased focus and resource allocation on strengthening past efforts such as Operation Puff Adder, aimed at dislodging bandits currently active in states that are bandit strongholds.
“The government should explore conflict resolution methodologies to facilitate dialogue between communities historically marred by tensions, such as those between herders and farmers.
“This initiative should prioritize the resolution of land disputes and resource allocation issues while delving into the underlying factors exacerbating these conflicts.
“Furthermore, it is imperative to thoroughly investigate the funding sources and networks that support gunmen while concurrently addressing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons within these communities.
“The collaboration between security agencies and the justice system is crucial for ensuring effective investigation and prosecution, thereby swiftly holding perpetrators of attacks accountable and ultimately serving as a deterrent against future violence,” he said.
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