Surge in kidnappings worries Nigerians, says ex-Osun lawmaker

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has expressed concern over the growing rate of kidnapping for ransom across the country, saying the trend is causing fear among Nigerians.

Oyintiloye, a former member of the Osun State House of Assembly, urged President Bola Tinubu and security chiefs to adopt new strategies to tackle the surge in abductions and other security challenges.

In a statement made available in Osogbo on Sunday, he warned that the rising wave of insecurity could erode the gains made by the current administration in restoring peace and driving economic development.

He said, “There is no doubt that the President is doing everything humanly possible to tackle insecurity challenges in the country. But the recent upsurge in kidnapping is a serious concern to Nigerians.

“The prevailing insecurity discourages both domestic and foreign investments, and lack of a secure environment undermines the implementation of developmental projects that could otherwise contribute to the country economic upliftment.

“Travelling by road across the country is no longer safe due to the fear of being kidnapped. This recent surge in kidnapping has instilled a pervasive sense of fear and uncertainty among the populace, with many feeling increasingly unsecured and vulnerable to such threats.”

Oyintiloye called on the government to reduce unemployment as a way to curb insecurity and also urged the judiciary to ensure speedy prosecution of offenders involved in terrorism, insurgency, banditry and kidnapping.

He added, “It must also strengthen prosecution and legal actions to ensure perpetrators of offences such as terrorism, insurgency, banditry, or kidnapping are swiftly apprehended, prosecuted, and held to account under the law.

“The recent upsurge in security breaches underscores the need for urgent attention by the President and the security agencies to fight back with full force for the peace and stability of the country.”

Oyintiloye commended Tinubu for his ongoing support of security agencies in their efforts to safeguard the country.