Averting Kidnapping as Threat to Human Freedom and Development in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, Zamfara State

Abstract

There have been serious threats to the country’s national security, as well as individual security. Threatening human and national security like never before are cases of organized crimes virtually in every part of the country. These range from political violence, insurgency, oil bunkering banditry and kidnapping to mention but a few. Against this background, this study presents an assessment of the causes and consequences of kidnapping in Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State. It underscores the view that the issue and problem of kidnapping in Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State could be assessed when viewed from the perspective of the general insecurity in Nigeria. Using differential opportunities theory, descriptive and analytical methods, the study underscores the inadequate security measures and the collaboration of corrupt law enforcement officials are significantly responsible for the causes of kidnappings. Further, it points to the illegal proliferation of arms and ammunitions as a major determinant of the outbreak of kidnapping in the area, also highlighting the Nigerian porous borders with neighbouring countries as a causative factor of kidnapping in the area under consideration. It concludes that the government must be proactive in ensuring that the right steps are taken within its powers to checkmate the menace of kidnapping and other crimes. Among others, this study recommends that there should be a synergy between the security structure and the legal framework in order to achieve success in the fight against the crime of kidnapping and the myriads of security challenges in Nigeria.