Security operatives have arrested two suspected kidnappers during an operation in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.
According to reports, one member of the gang was killed during a gun battle with security personnel, while another suspect escaped and is currently on the run. Security agencies are said to be searching for the fleeing suspect.
During the operation, three AK-47 rifles were recovered, and several kidnapped victims were rescued safely. Although authorities have not released further details about the victims or the suspects, the operation is being seen as another success in the fight against kidnapping in Nigeria.
Kidnapping Has Become a Major Problem in Nigeria
Kidnapping has grown into one of Nigeria’s biggest security problems. Years ago, such incidents were not as common, but today almost every part of the country has experienced cases of abduction.
States like Kaduna, Niger, Zamfara, Benue, Kogi, Edo, Delta, the South-East, and even the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have all recorded kidnapping incidents. Criminals now target travellers, farmers, students, business owners, traditional rulers, and even people in their homes.
Nigeria has witnessed several heartbreaking kidnapping cases over the years. These include the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls, the kidnapping of passengers on the Abuja-Kaduna train in 2022, and the abduction of hundreds of pupils in Kuriga, Kaduna State, in 2024. Sadly, many victims have been killed, while others spent weeks or months in captivity before being released.
How Kidnapping Is Affecting Nigerians
The rise in kidnapping has brought fear to many communities. Many people are now afraid to travel by road, especially on highways known for attacks.
Families often sell their property, borrow money, or spend all their savings to pay ransom for loved ones. Some victims return home with emotional trauma, while others never make it back alive.
The problem has also affected farming. Many farmers have abandoned their farms because they fear being kidnapped. This has reduced food production and contributed to rising food prices across the country.
Businesses are also suffering, as some investors are unwilling to invest in areas where insecurity is high.
Why Is Kidnapping Increasing?
Experts believe there are many reasons behind the rise in kidnapping.
High unemployment and poverty have pushed some young people into crime. The availability of illegal guns has also made it easier for criminal groups to operate.
Weak security in some rural areas, poor intelligence gathering, slow court processes, and the large ransom payments made by victims’ families have also encouraged kidnappers to continue their activities.
What Can Be Done?
Security agencies have made progress by arresting suspects, rescuing victims, and recovering weapons, but many believe more needs to be done.
Experts say the government should improve intelligence gathering, provide better equipment for security personnel, strengthen community policing, and ensure criminals are prosecuted quickly.
Creating more jobs and giving young people better opportunities can also help reduce crime. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities and cooperate with security agencies.
Our Take
The successful operation in Ekpoma is good news and shows that security agencies are making efforts to tackle kidnapping. The rescue of victims and the recovery of weapons are important achievements.
However, the fact that one suspect escaped shows that the fight is far from over. Security operations must continue until kidnapping gangs are completely dismantled.
Kidnapping is not just a security problem—it is also an economic and social problem. It affects families, businesses, education, farming, and the country’s image. Nigeria needs stronger security, better intelligence, more jobs for young people, and the full support of citizens to end this growing threat.
Every kidnapper arrested is a step forward, but lasting peace will only come when people can travel, work, and live without constantly fearing abduction.
Published by Ejoh Caleb
