Investigations by SUNDAY PUNCH have revealed alarming statistics, with at least 2,140 individuals reported kidnapped across 24 states in Nigeria between January and July 2024.
The data, gathered from reports in four major Nigerian newspapers—The PUNCH, The Guardian, The Nation, and Vanguard—shows that the escalating insecurity has resulted in significant human and financial losses.
According to the findings, the families of 62 victims, representing 2.89% of the total abductees, paid a combined sum of N389 million in ransom to secure their loved ones’ release.
The monthly breakdown of reported kidnappings shows a sharp increase in abductions over the period: January (193), February (101), March (543), April (112), May (977), June (97), and July (117), culminating in a total of 2,140 kidnappings.
Among the states, Zamfara recorded the highest number of kidnappings, with 667 victims, followed by Kaduna (454), Niger (252), Abuja/FCT (183), and Borno (121). Other states with significant incidents include Katsina (117), Kogi (60), Ogun (47), Delta (35), and Nasarawa (31). Smaller numbers were reported in Oyo (20), Benue (19), Rivers (13), Ondo (33), Sokoto (15), Ekiti (10), Akwa Ibom (29), Abia (10), Anambra (5), Taraba (6), and Edo (2).
One of the most notable incidents during this period occurred between January 4 and 5, when 85 travelers were abducted along the Kaduna-Abuja highway near Katari in the Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
In February, a major incident saw a terrorist gang kidnap at least 60 wedding guests on February 1st in the Sabuwa Local Government Area of Katsina State, believed to have been escorting a bride to her new home.
These figures underscore the worsening insecurity in Nigeria, with kidnappers not only targeting remote areas but also major highways, leaving citizens vulnerable and authorities under pressure to restore safety. The police are reportedly tracking suspects, but the effectiveness of these efforts remains to be seen as the country grapples with the ongoing crisis.
News Editor