PRINCIPLES BEHIND THE KIDNAPPING SCOURGE IN NIGERIA AND GROWING OUT OF THE SITUATION

Today, it is not just something from a scary movie—it is a reality we face all too often, growing from an occasional headline to an everyday occurrence.
It begs the questions of when, how, and why it has become so widespread. But, before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s do a few definition of terms.
After all, even in the midst of seriousness, clarity is key, and perhaps, a little humour to lighten the load won't hurt.

 Kidnapping, in its simplest form, is the unlawful taking away or transportation of a person against their will, typically to hold them in false imprisonment. But let us not get too academic. Picture it as that dreaded moment when someone shows up uninvited to a party or church service, grabs you, and drags you off to who-knows-where. Only, instead of a party, it’s your life they’ve crashed, and instead of fun, they’re after something much darker.

1. Presented at the: Jameslizzyokon Foundation Programme On: Saturday, August 24, 2024 by: Tpl . Olutoyin Ayinde FNITP,PPNITP TOPIC: PRINCIPLES BEHIND THE KIDNAPPING SCOURGE IN NIGERIA AND GROWING OUT OF THE SITUATION

2. “Kidnapping causes a long-term rupture in the psyche of those kidnapped and of those who wait for their return. It doesn’t end.” – Uzodinma Iweala   Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen , brothers and sisters in Christ, let’s talk about a topic that’s probably more chilling than a cold shower on a winter morning: kidnapping. It sends shivers down the spine and raises the hair on the back of our necks. Today , it isn’t just something from a scary movie—it’s a reality we face all too often , growing from an occasional headline to an everyday occurrence. It begs the questions of when, how, and why it has become so widespread. But, before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s do a few definition of terms. After all, even in the midst of seriousness, clarity is key, and perhaps, a little humor to lighten the load won't hurt. PREAMBLE/ INTRODUCTION

3. 1. What is Kidnapping?    Kidnapping, in its simplest form, is the unlawful taking away or transportation of a person against their will, typically to hold them in false imprisonment. But let’s not get too academic. Picture it as that dreaded moment when someone shows up uninvited to a party or church service, grabs you, and drags you off to who-knows-where. Only, instead of a party, it’s your life they’ve crashed, and instead of fun, they’re after something much darker.   2. What is Abduction?    Abduction is like kidnapping’s younger, sneakier cousin. It involves taking someone away by persuasion, fraud, or open force. Think of it as the slightly more cunning version of kidnapping. Instead of just grabbing you, they might sweet-talk you into the car first.   3. The Difference Between Kidnapping and Abduction      While both involve being taken against your will, kidnapping often has an element of ransom or some form of demand attached to it. Abduction might just be someone wanting to keep you hidden away without necessarily asking for a payout.   DEFINITION OF TERMS 

4.  4. Who is a Captor?    A captor is the person who carries out the kidnapping or abduction. In simpler terms, the bad guy. But not the kind with a black hat and twirling mustache—more like the kind who needs some serious divine intervention.   5. Who is a Captive?    The captive is the unfortunate individual who finds themselves at the mercy of the captor. In other words, the one who’s been grabbed, taken, and is now in need of prayers and a lot of luck.       DEFINITION OF TERMS 

5. Nigeria’s national experience with kidnapping is like a terrible story that just keeps getting worse. What once seemed like isolated, uncommon incidents have now spread like wildfire. It used to be that kidnapping was the stuff of urban legends or something you’d hear about in far-off places. Now, it’s knocking on our doors. What was once the work of a few misguided miscreants has ballooned into a booming, albeit sinister, industry. It’s as though we’ve gone from dealing with a few troublemakers to facing a full-blown criminal enterprise.   The reasons behind this rise are as diverse as they are complex. Economic hardship, weak law enforcement, societal decay—these are just a few of the culprits. But one thing is clear: the situation has gotten out of hand, and it’s going to take more than just wishful thinking to resolve it. In fact, it’s going to take all hands on deck—government, communities, and yes, the Church. THE NATIONAL EXPERIENCE

6. Kidnapping is a multifaceted crime with various underlying motivations that can differ based on regional, social, and individual factors. Understanding the diverse reasons behind kidnapping can help in crafting targeted prevention and intervention strategies. Here are some of the primary reasons for kidnapping:   Ransom and Financial Gain: The most common motive for kidnapping is financial gain through ransom demands. Criminals often target individuals or families who are perceived to be wealthy or capable of paying a significant amount of money for the victim’s release. Ransom-based kidnappings are prevalent in many regions, including parts of Latin America and Nigeria, where organized crime groups and gangs operate (Jones & Smith, 2018). Political Leverage and Terrorism: Kidnapping is used as a political tool by various groups to exert pressure on governments or to advance political agendas. Terrorist organizations may abduct individuals to create fear, attract media attention, or leverage their captives to negotiate for political concessions or the release of comrades (Miller, 2020). For instance, groups like Boko Haram and ISIS have used kidnapping to further their ideological goals and recruit followers.   REASONS FOR KIDNAPPING

7. 3. Human Trafficking and Exploitation: Kidnapping is a critical component of human trafficking operations, where individuals are abducted and forced into labor, sexual exploitation, or other forms of abuse. Victims of human trafficking are often coerced into servitude under threats of violence or through deceptive practices, making kidnapping a means to control and exploit vulnerable individuals (Davis, 2019).   Revenge and Personal Vendettas: In some cases, kidnapping is driven by personal grievances or vendettas. Individuals may abduct others as an act of revenge, to settle personal scores, or to intimidate adversaries. Such kidnappings are often rooted in longstanding disputes or conflicts within families, communities, or business rivalries (Williams & Taylor, 2021).   Criminal Enterprise and Organized Crime: Kidnapping can be a component of broader criminal enterprises, including drug trafficking, extortion, and smuggling operations. Criminal organizations may use kidnapping to exert control over regions, intimidate rival groups, or generate additional revenue streams through the exploitation of abducted individuals (Olsen, 2022).     REASONS FOR KIDNAPPING

8. 6. Ritualistic and Superstitious Beliefs: In some cultures, kidnapping is linked to ritualistic or superstitious practices. Abductions may occur as part of traditional beliefs or rituals that involve sacrifices, divination, or other ceremonial practices. Such motivations are often deeply rooted in local customs and can be particularly challenging to address (Nguyen & Chan, 2021). 7. Desperation and Survival: In situations of extreme poverty or economic hardship, individuals may resort to kidnapping as a means of survival or to provide for their families. The desperation stemming from lack of resources or opportunities can push individuals toward criminal activities, including kidnapping, as a perceived means of financial relief (Brown, 2019). 8. Ideological and Religious Extremism: Some kidnappings are motivated by extremist ideologies or religious beliefs. Groups with radical ideologies may abduct individuals to impose their views, recruit members, or demonstrate their power and influence. These kidnappings are often aimed at promoting a particular ideology or religious agenda (Khan, 2020).   Understanding these diverse motivations helps in developing a nuanced approach to combating kidnapping. Addressing the root causes, improving socio-economic conditions, enhancing legal frameworks, and promoting awareness are essential steps in mitigating the risks associated with this crime. REASONS FOR KIDNAPPING

9. THE PRINCIPLES UNDERLYING KIDNAPPING Now, let’s peel back the layers and examine the principles that underlie this scourge. You see, kidnapping isn’t just about grabbing someone and demanding ransom; it’s deeper than that. It’s rooted in some very twisted principles.  1. Capturing Freedom for Selfish Ends    At its core, kidnapping is about taking someone’s freedom for the selfish gain of the captor. Whether it’s money, power, or some other form of compensation, the goal is always the same: to deprive the captive of their liberty for personal gain.   2. Born of Ulterior Motives    Kidnapping is often driven by some dark ulterior motives—hatred, envy, insecurity, indoctrination, or the pursuit of unholy gains. It’s like a recipe for disaster, with a dash of everything bad thrown into the mix. 3. Reliance on Violence, Deceit, and Conspiracy      Kidnapping doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It thrives on violence, deceit, and conspiracy. The captors rely on these methods to execute their plans, often leaving a trail of trauma and destruction in their wake.   4. Kidnapping of Destiny, Promotion, Rights, and Future    And here’s where it gets even more spiritual. Kidnapping isn’t just about physically taking someone. It can also be about the metaphorical kidnapping of one’s destiny, promotion, rights, and future. How many times have we seen people’s lives derailed because someone decided to play God over their fate?

10. 1. Distortion of Life Goals/Plans      Imagine setting out on a journey with your destination in sight, only to be yanked off course by a kidnapper. That’s what happens to life goals and plans—they get distorted, sometimes beyond recognition. 2. Termination of Life/Destiny    In the worst cases, kidnapping results in the ultimate tragedy: the termination of a life or destiny. It’s like cutting short a story that was meant to be long and fulfilling.   3. Life Held in Bondage      For those who survive, life in captivity is a form of bondage. It’s living in fear, with every moment dictated by the whims of the captor.   IMPLICATIONS OF KIDNAPPING The implications of kidnapping are far-reaching and devastating. It’s like throwing a stone into a pond—the ripples spread far and wide, affecting not just the victim, but everyone around them.

11. 4. Stagnation      Kidnapping doesn’t just stall progress—it brings it to a grinding halt. Whether it’s a stalled career, a halted education, or a life put on pause, the effects are stifling.   5. Living in Suspense      There’s nothing more torturous than the suspense of not knowing what comes next. For the captive and their loved ones, it’s like being trapped in a nightmare with no end in sight.   6. Inability to Construct a New Vision      When your present is hijacked, how do you plan for the future? Kidnapping can shatter a person’s ability to dream, plan, or envision a better tomorrow.   IMPLICATIONS OF KIDNAPPING The implications of kidnapping are far-reaching and devastating. It’s like throwing a stone into a pond—the ripples spread far and wide, affecting not just the victim, but everyone around them.

12. 1. There’s a General Apathy      We live in a world where it’s all too easy to look the other way if the problem doesn’t land on our doorstep. But apathy only feeds the problem, allowing it to grow unchecked.   2. It’s a National Malaise    Kidnapping isn’t just a problem for a few—it’s a national malaise. It reflects the cracks in our society and the failings in our governance systems.   3. Reflective of Lapses in Governance      When kidnapping thrives, it’s a sign that something is seriously wrong with our governance. It’s a symptom of weak law enforcement, corruption, and a lack of accountability.   TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: apathy. It’s easy to feel disconnected from the problem of kidnapping if it hasn’t touched you personally. But as Lamentations 1:12 reminds us, we cannot afford to be indifferent to the suffering of others.

13. 4. A Product of Declining Societal Values      As our societal values decline, so too does our collective sense of right and wrong. Kidnapping is just one of the many manifestations of this decay. 5. Proof of Diminishing Humanity      When we can kidnap, abuse, or ignore the suffering of others, it’s a clear sign that our humanity is diminishing. We’re losing touch with the very essence of what makes us human—compassion, empathy, and love.   6. Families Should Be Concerned      Families are the bedrock of society, and values begin at home. If we want to address the problem of kidnapping, we must start by instilling the right values in our homes. 7. Faith-Based Organizations Should Be Concerned      The Church and other faith-based organizations have a vital role to play. They are the custodians of values and principles that can counteract the forces driving kidnapping. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

14. 1. It’s Growth Because That’s the Proof of Development    Growth isn’t just about getting bigger—it’s about getting better. As a society, we need to grow out of the mindset that allows kidnapping to thrive.   2. The Need to Accept Reality      Denial won’t solve the problem. We need to accept the reality of our situation if we’re going to change it.   3. Revisiting Our Roots—the Essence of Community      We’ve lost the sense of community that once held us together. It’s time to revisit our roots and rediscover the power of unity. 4. Rediscovering the Most Vital Ingredient      The most vital ingredient in this fight is love—love for God, for our neighbors, and for ourselves. As the Bible reminds us in Exodus 20:1-17, Matthew 22:36-40, and Galatians 5:22-23, love is the fulfillment of the law. It is the foundation upon which we must build our response to kidnapping and all forms of evil. When we love, we create a society that values life, dignity, and freedom.     GROWING OUT OF THE SITUATION So, how do we grow out of this situation? Growth, after all, is the proof of development. But growth requires effort, change, and a willingness to face reality.

15. 5. Leadership Development Through Followership Development    Strong leaders are crucial in the fight against kidnapping, but strong leaders are born from strong followers. It’s not enough to demand good leadership; we must also be good followers—responsible, active, and engaged in our communities. We need to cultivate a culture where leadership is not just about authority, but about service and sacrifice.   6. Project Mindset Change as the Basis for All Meaningful Change True change begins in the mind. If we want to see an end to kidnapping, we must change the way we think about ourselves, others, and the world around us. This requires a complete mindset shift—one that prioritizes the common good over personal gain, and integrity over opportunism. As Romans 12:2 advises, we must be transformed by the renewing of our minds.   Before we conclude, let me discuss an important aspect of this topic which I have chosen to discuss as a section separately. It is about the Rule of Law. GROWING OUT OF THE SITUATION So, how do we grow out of this situation? Growth, after all, is the proof of development. But growth requires effort, change, and a willingness to face reality.

16. We cannot bring this to an end without considering one of the most powerful tools we have to fight this menace, which is the rule of law. But like David without his sling, the rule of law is only effective when paired with something just as important: enforcement. Let's explore how these two work hand in hand, with a sprinkle of faith, to tackle the scourge of kidnapping. The Rule of Law: God’s Order in Society The rule of law is like the foundation of a house built on solid rock (you see where I'm going with this). It ensures that everyone—rich or poor, powerful or powerless—is subject to the same laws. In the Bible, we see the importance of justice time and time again. Remember when King Solomon had to decide the case of the two women claiming the same baby? It was the rule of law, coupled with divine wisdom, that led to a just outcome. In our modern-day context, the rule of law gives us the legal framework to define, prosecute, and punish kidnapping. It ensures that justice isn’t just a concept we talk about on Sundays, but something we live by every day. But just like faith without works is dead, laws without enforcement are little more than ink on paper. THE RULE OF LAW AND ENFORCEMENT: DIVINE TOOLS IN FINDING SOLUTIONS TO KIDNAPPING

17. Enforcement: Putting Feet to Our Faith   Now, while the rule of law provides the framework, enforcement is what puts feet to our faith. Without it, our laws are like salt that has lost its flavor—completely useless. In many parts of Nigeria, enforcement of laws related to kidnapping is often weak, inconsistent, or, dare I say, corrupted. And you know what they say: "Where there is no enforcement, the people cast off restraint" (okay, maybe that's not exactly how it goes, but you get the idea). So, how do we go about this?   1. Strengthening Law Enforcement Agencies   For the rule of law to work its divine magic, our law enforcement agencies need to be strengthened. We need our police, detectives, and other agencies to be like Joshua—fearless, well-equipped, and ready to face the giants (or kidnappers, in this case) in our land. They need modern tools, proper funding, and training in the latest investigative techniques. After all, you can’t expect to defeat Goliath with a slingshot if you’ve never practiced your aim!   THE RULE OF LAW AND ENFORCEMENT: DIVINE TOOLS IN FINDING SOLUTIONS TO KIDNAPPING

18. 2. Tackling Corruption: The Necessary Purge   Now, we all know that corruption is like the serpent in the Garden—it looks harmless at first, but one bite and the whole system is poisoned. Corruption within law enforcement and the judiciary is a significant barrier to the effective enforcement of laws against kidnapping. But just as Jesus overturned the tables of the money changers in the temple, we must overturn corruption within these institutions. It’s not just about punishment, but also about redemption—building a system that is transparent, accountable, and just. 3. Enhancing Collaboration and Coordination   Kidnapping is often an organized crime, requiring a coordinated response from various agencies. Think of it as the body of Christ, where every part needs to work together in harmony. Our law enforcement agencies must collaborate with one another, with communities, and even across borders. Just like the early church, where believers pooled their resources for the common good, we need to pool our intelligence, resources, and efforts to tackle kidnapping effectively.   THE RULE OF LAW AND ENFORCEMENT: DIVINE TOOLS IN FINDING SOLUTIONS TO KIDNAPPING

19. 4. Protecting the Rights of Victims: Love in Action   Effective enforcement of the rule of law also means protecting the rights of victims. This is where love, the greatest commandment, comes into play. It’s not just about rescuing victims but also about restoring them—providing them with the support and compensation they need to heal. Law enforcement agencies must be trained to handle kidnapping cases with the same compassion Jesus showed to the woman at the well, ensuring that victims are treated with dignity and respect.   5. Swift and Fair Prosecution: Justice Rolled Down Like Water   For the rule of law to be a deterrent to kidnapping, justice must be swift and fair. Delays in the judicial process or leniency in sentencing can embolden kidnappers, just as delays in prayer can sometimes embolden doubt. The judiciary must be like the prophet Amos who called for justice to "roll down like waters"—independent, impartial, and efficient in handling kidnapping cases. Special courts or fast-track procedures might be necessary to ensure that justice doesn’t trickle, but flows abundantly.   THE RULE OF LAW AND ENFORCEMENT: DIVINE TOOLS IN FINDING SOLUTIONS TO KIDNAPPING

20. The rule of law and enforcement are like two sides of the same coin—each is necessary to combat kidnapping effectively. But just as we are called to bear one another’s burdens, this fight is not one for law enforcement alone. It requires collective action from all sectors of society—government, communities, faith-based organizations, and individuals alike. Together, we can create a society where the rule of law is not just a lofty ideal, but a lived reality. And with God’s help, we can turn the tide against kidnapping, making our nation a safer, more just place for all.   As it is written, "Let justice flow like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream" (Amos 5:24). And with that, may justice indeed flow in Nigeria, bringing an end to the scourge of kidnapping once and for all. Amen! THE POWER OF COLLECTIVE ACTION

21. In conclusion, the issue of kidnapping in Nigeria is one that concerns us all, regardless of our status, profession, or beliefs. It’s not just a political problem or a security issue—it’s a moral and spiritual crisis that calls us to examine the very core of our values and principles. As we’ve discussed, the scourge of kidnapping is rooted in selfishness, violence, and a lack of love. But the solution lies in our collective willingness to grow, to change, and to return to the path of righteousness.   We must remember that our choices have consequences. As John Maxwell rightly said, “We make our choices, and our choices make us.” If we choose to ignore the problem, to remain apathetic, or to put our selfish interests first, we will only find ourselves deeper in the mire. But if we choose to act—to love, to serve, to lead with integrity—we can turn the tide.   Let us charge ourselves today to be renewed in our minds, to seek the renewal of others, and to build a nation where kidnapping is not just illegal, but unthinkable. This has happened before. Many nations have turned around their stories from deplorable to enviable. We, too, can choose to do exactly the same. The choice is ours, and the future is in our hands.   CONCLUSION

22. Thank You! Tpl . Olutoyin Ayinde FNITP, PPNITP Email : [email protected] Tel: [phone]