Kidnappings in Nigeria: Is Ransom Payment the New Norm? by Aishat M. Abisola
Recently, there is an alarming surge in kidnapping incidents across the country, and the tragic story of Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar and her sisters stands as a chilling testament to the escalating crisis. The recent plight of the Al-Kadriyar family has unveiled not only the increasing boldness of criminal elements, but also the ethical dilemma surrounding ransom payments.
Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar’s kidnapping resulted in heartbreak as she fell victim to the ruthless criminals who have been terrorizing Nigerian families. Her sisters, who hitherto remained in captivity, had faced an uncertain fate, highlighting the grim reality many families endure. The surge in kidnapping cases across Nigeria underscores a systemic issue that demands urgent attention and comprehensive solutions.
The payment of ransom has become a contentious issue in the fight against kidnappings. Although, it seems like a desperate measure to secure the release of loved ones, critics argue that it can exacerbate the problem by providing financial incentives for criminals. Despite his public stance against ransom payments, Prof Isa Pantami, the Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, stepped forward with a generous donation of N50 million by his friend, to secure the release of the remaining Al-Kadriyar sisters after Nabeeha’s murder by terrorists.
Talking on his X handle (formerly Twitter), Prof Isa stated, “Alhamdu lil Laah! I am personally not in support of paying ransom to criminals. However, since it becomes clear, we lost our daughter Nabeeha yesterday, and the 5 remaining daughters have been threatened, as I spoke with the father on the matter yesterday and today.
“Furthermore, I spoke with a friend and a brother who offered to pay the remaining 50 million Naira of the 60m immediately. I conveyed the account number of the father of our daughters, Mansoor Al-Kadriyar, to the friend and brother to send the money directly. Any additional amount earlier generated from yesterday, the father can use to treat the daughters and other family members in sha Allah.”
The ethical dilemma surrounding ransom payments is complex. On one hand, the immediate safety of the abducted individuals is paramount; on the other, succumbing to the demands of criminals may perpetuate the cycle of kidnappings. This begs the question: Will paying ransom cause more harm than good in the long run?
The payment of ransoms is a short-term solution to a long-term problem. It may save lives temporarily, but it does not tackle the underlying issues that contribute to the rise in kidnappings. Poverty, lack of job opportunities, and weak law enforcement were identified as key factors that need addressing to effectively combat the kidnapping crisis.
The involvement of Prof Pantami’s friend adds a layer of complexity to the situation. The generous donation, albeit made with the intention of securing the release of the Al-Kadriyar sisters, contradicts Pantami’s public stance against ransom payments. This dissonance within the government raises questions about the coherence and effectiveness of Nigeria’s anti-kidnapping efforts.
The Al-Kadriyar parents had found themselves caught in a nightmarish situation, torn between the desire to ensure the safety of their daughters and the potential consequences of paying a hefty ransom. The emotional toll on families facing such dilemmas is immeasurable, and their perspective sheds light on the desperation and vulnerability that many Nigerians experience in the face of rampant kidnappings.
In an emotional plea, the Al-Kadriyar parents had first expressed their willingness to pay any ransom to secure the release of their daughters. Their heart-wrenching decision reflects the agonizing choices that families are forced to make when confronted with the harsh reality of kidnappings. Their desperate plea also highlights the need for immediate and effective government intervention to ensure the safety and security of Nigerian citizens.
To conclude, the kidnapping of Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar and her sisters provided a chilling insight towards the grim reality of the escalating crisis in Nigeria. The ethical debate surrounding ransom payments, the involvement of government officials, and the harrowing decisions faced by families emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach. Only by addressing the root causes and implementing effective strategies can Nigeria hope to curb the rising tide of kidnappings and secure the safety of its citizens.
