Why Kidnapping Cases Are On The Rise- Ribadu

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has provided reasons for the seemingly surge in cases of kidnappings across the country even as he urged Nigerians to be patient with the President Bola Tinubu-led government amid security challenges.

Ribadu, a retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, said armed robbers have become kidnappers because people no longer keep money at home.

He explained that criminals across the country shifted to kidnapping to force their victims’ relatives to bring money to them since going to people’s homes to rob is no longer lucrative.

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The NSA spoke during the ongoing 19th Annual Nigerian Editors Conference in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State on Thursday.

Speaking on the theme; ‘Stimulating Economic Growth, Technological Advancement: Role of the Media,’ Ribadu said what the country needs is the cooperation of all to ensure the Federal Government eliminates all forms of insecurity in the country.

He said that the new administration inherited a tough period from the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration, asking for the understanding of Nigerians.

“We inherited a tough period. We appeal for patience and understanding.

“It’s tough times and that is the reality. We are not condemning anyone but that is the truth. Those who are in charge must say the truth, say it as it is, and then hopefully things will be better for you.

Noting that there has been a lot of improvement in the security situation of the nation, the NSA insisted that all hands must be on deck to surmount insecurity challenges.

We are all in this together, as a National Security Adviser, you want to hear about national security. We have been there about five months a few days into the office. We have given Nigeria to President Bola Tinubu to manage it for us.

“In the last five months, I have been there by his side and have seen how things were and how things are when we started, and hopefully the direction we are going is okay,” he added.

Over 300 editors are attending the four-day conference.