ARTICLE SUMMARY
| Title: | Socio-Economic Implication of Kidnapping and Hostage Taking in Southern Nigeria |
| Author(s): | OKETA Chibugo Moses |
| Abstract: | This paper examines the phenomenon of kidnapping and hostage taking in Southern Nigeria and its socio-economic implications. The paper posits that kidnapping and hostage taking has become ubiquitous in Nigeria, however more prevalent in the South-South and South-East part of the country. They seem to be a security gap which the culprits are taking advantage of in perfecting their crime. This gap could be as result of inefficient and ineffective strategy been adopted by the security agents coupled with government policy inconsistencies. Rampaging incidents of kidnapping has resulted into worrisome security challenge threatening national economic development as most investors has deserted the region. The paper utilized secondary data and was anchored on functionalist theory. Amongst other factors the paper argues that; kidnapping is sustained by leadership failure, unemployment, poverty and corruption among security agencies. Based on the findings, the paper recommended the need to review the current strategy of dealing with the issue of kidnapping and hostage taking in Nigeria. In particular, there is the need to explore the extant laws and the extent to which they are being enforced with a view to establishing their efficacy. Also, Government at all levels should make policies that will attract both local and foreign investors which will create employment opportunities for the youths especially the vulnerable ones. |
| Keywords: | Hostage taking, Kidnapping for ransom, Kidnapping, Socio-economic |
Editorial Board
EDITOR-IN CHIEF
Prof. Jonathan E. Aliede
DEPUTY EDITOR-IN CHIEF
Agatha Obiageri Orji-Egwu, Ph.D
MANAGING EDITOR
SÃmon Ugochukwu Nwankwo, Ph.D
EDITORS
Prof. Ifeyinwa Nsude
Prof. Angela Nwanmuo
Prof. Tyotom Keghku
Prof. Muyiwa Poopola
Prof. Nnanyelugo Okoro
Prof L. I. Ogbuoshi
Ruth. Chika Okorie, Ph.D
Adeola Sidikat Oyrleke, Ph.D
Celestine Ukeoma, Ph.D