The recent abduction and tragic death of the 74-year-old Emir of Gobir, Alhaji Isah Muhammad Bawa, has once again spotlighted the alarming inadequacies of Nigeria’s security agencies in combating the rampant kidnapping crisis. Despite the presence of multiple security organizations, the failure to effectively track and apprehend kidnappers continues to provoke public outrage and calls for accountability.
Victims of kidnapping often endure unimaginable suffering, with families coerced into paying exorbitant ransoms. The Emir’s case, where his abductors demanded N1 billion and later killed him when the ransom was not met, exemplifies the dire circumstances faced by many Nigerians. The inability of security forces to rescue him or apprehend the criminals involved has raised serious questions about the efficacy of the nation’s security apparatus.
Communication Breakdown: The Challenge of Tracking Kidnappers
Despite advancements in technology, kidnappers have proven adept at evading capture. They frequently communicate with victims’ families via mobile phones, complicating tracking efforts. In a recent investigation by Vanguard News, it was highlighted that numerous kidnappings across the country follow a similar pattern, with kidnappers using mobile phones to negotiate ransoms. The investigation revealed that despite the involvement of various security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, and the Navy, there has been a consistent failure to track down these criminals.
Previously implemented initiatives, such as the Intelligence Response Team and various tracking devices, have faltered due to mismanagement and a lack of resources. The Vanguard investigation pointed out that the tracking systems established by the Nigeria Police Force, which were intended to monitor kidnappers’ movements and calls, have become ineffective due to neglect and misallocation of resources.
Retired police officials attribute these failures to the shifting priorities of successive Inspectors General of Police (IGPs), who have reportedly misused tracking technologies for personal and political interests rather than focusing on combating crime. The investigation noted that the initial technical platform for tracking calls, set up under former IGP Solomon Arase, has deteriorated over the years. This platform, which was designed to provide real-time data on kidnappers, has not been adequately maintained or upgraded, leading to its eventual dysfunction.
Under-resourced and Demotivated: The Plight of Security Personnel
The frustrations of security personnel are palpable. Many officers lack the necessary resources and support for high-risk operations, leading to reluctance in pursuing kidnappers. According to the Vanguard investigation, officers have expressed concerns about inadequate equipment, lack of proper allowances, and insufficient training to handle the complexities of modern-day kidnapping scenarios. This has resulted in a culture of fear and hesitance among personnel tasked with confronting armed kidnappers in dangerous terrains.
There is widespread discontent regarding recognition and rewards for their efforts, with claims that political connections often overshadow merit in operational successes. Officers have recounted instances where their contributions to successful operations have gone unrecognized, while those with political ties receive accolades despite minimal involvement.
A senior police officer has revealed that kidnappers have adapted their strategies, now utilizing victims’ phones for communication, rendering traditional tracking methods ineffective. This shift underscores the urgent need for investment in advanced technologies, such as GPS tracking and digital forensics, to enhance the capabilities of security agencies in locating and apprehending criminals. The Vanguard report emphasized that without modern tools and a proactive approach, the ability to combat kidnapping effectively will remain severely compromised.
Government and Regulatory Agency Response: A Call for Action
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has implemented measures such as SIM registration and the linkage of National Identification Numbers (NIN) in an effort to bolster security. However, these initiatives have not effectively curtailed the activities of kidnappers. NCC officials, as reported in the Vanguard investigation, have stated that their role is to support security agencies, which have not fully utilized the resources at their disposal. They highlighted the alarming statistics of individuals owning multiple SIM cards, which complicates efforts to trace criminal activities.
Public sentiment is increasingly frustrated with the government’s inability to adequately address the kidnapping crisis, despite the availability of technologies and strategies. In numerous interviews conducted by Vanguard, citizens expressed their disbelief that, in an age of technological advancement, kidnappers can operate with relative impunity. Many have called for a more robust response from the government, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond reactive measures.
Conclusion: A Call for Comprehensive Reform
This investigation reveals a complex interplay of mismanagement, inadequate resources, and evolving criminal tactics that hinder the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security agencies. As the nation grapples with the escalating kidnapping crisis, there is an urgent need for a strategic overhaul in tracking methods and a commitment from the government to prioritize the safety and well-being of its citizens. The Vanguard investigation underscores that the time for action is now. A multifaceted approach, combining technology, better resource allocation, and a focus on the welfare of security personnel, is essential to reclaiming security and restoring public confidence in law enforcement.
