Governor Soludo Reveals Nigerians Paid Over ₦10 Trillion in Ransoms Last Year Amid Growing Kidnapping Crisis
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed grave concern over the increasing rate of kidnapping in Nigeria, revealing that Nigerians may have paid as much as ₦10 trillion in ransoms in 2024 alone.
In a heartfelt speech delivered at the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in Awka, Soludo decried the growing trend of kidnapping for ransom, which he described as the country’s “most lucrative business.” He referenced a report by the National Bureau of Statistics, which documented over ₦2 trillion paid in ransom last year. However, the governor noted that many cases go unreported, estimating that the total ransom paid could exceed ₦10 trillion.
Rising Threats and the Role of Citizens
Soludo condemned the activities of kidnappers, who have organized themselves into well-armed groups that target security forces, including police, soldiers, and civil defense personnel. He emphasized that these criminals often come from within the communities they terrorize.
“Kidnapping for ransom has become the most lucrative business in town. In Anambra, these hoodlums attack not only the police but the army, the navy, the civil defense, and the vigilante groups trying to protect us,” Soludo said. He also criticized the silence and complacency of society, which allowed the situation to worsen.
The governor reminded the public that security forces are not just dying at warfronts but also while trying to maintain peace within their own country. He stressed the need for collective responsibility, urging citizens to speak out against criminal activities and assist authorities in identifying the perpetrators.
Plans for Comprehensive Security Architecture
Looking ahead, Soludo outlined plans to strengthen the state’s security framework. He revealed that Anambra State would soon introduce a comprehensive security architecture aimed at tackling these criminals in a sustained and coordinated manner. The state government is awaiting the passage of the Homeland Security Law, which will provide legal grounds to address the security challenges more effectively.
“We must cleanse Anambra,” Soludo said. “It is our collective responsibility. Even if you can’t do anything physically, at least you can say something. If you know something, say something.”
The governor emphasized that security in Anambra is a shared responsibility, calling on all residents and citizens to join in the efforts to build a safer, more secure, and prosperous state.
Remembering the Fallen and Celebrating the Living
Soludo concluded by honoring the fallen heroes who had died in the line of duty, both at warfronts and within Nigeria’s borders. While remembering the sacrifices of security personnel, the governor urged the people of Anambra to commit themselves to a safer state, stressing the importance of unity and collective action.
