The Menace of Kidnapping in Nigeria: The Way Forward 

Abstract

Kidnapping is an act that has given the global community concern over the years, and Nigeria is not left out. This article discussed the origin of kidnapping in Nigeria. The evil act started in the Niger-Delta part of the country as a means of getting from the workers of the multi-nationals, what the people of the community felt should be given to them as their right.
It also discussed the causes of kidnapping in Nigeria, and its' effect on the Nigerian society both economically and socially. The act of kidnapping in the country has kept most foreign investors away from investing in Nigeria, It went further to discuss the laws that deal with the act of kidnapping in the country and some states laws on kidnapping. For instance, the Lagos State Government promulgated the anti-kidnapping Act which prescribes death penalty for kidnappers whose activities result in the death of the victim. It concluded by giving recommendations that would help in curbing the evil act of kidnapping if well-implemented by the various law enforcement agents. Part of its recommendations is the creation of community policing and local vigilante groups and the provision of arms for the local police as a way of equipping them for better service delivery.
The government itself has been encouraged to come up with programs that will enlighten members of the society on how to curb the menace and also to conduct regular empowerment program for the citizens.