Success Esomchi Obi

Department of Public Administration, School of Management Studies,

Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja PMB 1101

Orchid: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4111-4077   

Egwemi-Ugbeda C. Ejura

Ph.D in Political Science.

Department, Prince Abukakar Audu University, Anyigba Kogi State, PMB 1008 Nigeria

Orchid: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4309-8194

Yahaya Segun Alilu 

M.Sc in Political Science, LLB in Law.

Registrar/Lecture I with Political Science Department, Prince Abukakar Audu University, Anyigba Kogi State, PMB 1008 Nigeria

Orchid: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-3293-0556

Edegbo Sunday Jeremiah

Department of Political Science

Prince Abukakar Audu University, Anyigba Kogi State, PMB 1008 Nigeria

Abdul Yahaya

Department of Political Science

Prince Abukakar Audu University, Anyigba Kogi State, PMB 1008 Nigeria

OLORUNDARE, Abraham Sunday

Department of Political Science

Prince Abukakar Audu University, Anyigba Kogi State, PMB 1008 Nigeria

Abstract

Our current global reality is characterised by the frequent occurrence of insurgencies, kidnapping, banditry, terrorism and war. This study was undertaken to ascertain the impact of kidnapping and banditry on sustainable environment development in North Central Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria. Using multidisciplinary approach, findings reveals that security challenges undermines sustainable development in the study areas due to poor security infrastructure, bad governance/corruption and poverty which had detrimental effects on economic development and human security, such as increase in government spending on security, costing the victim’s family money and by extension elitist policies constituting a major challenge. However, findings further highlights that the central propelling factors of security challenges in Nigeria are weak institutions; executive, legislative, judiciary, institution of governance, political parties and oppositions and civil societies which are the hegemonic structure that diffuse the world view. We recommends, proactive policies by the executive arm of government to eradicate cost of governance, systemic corruption, unemployment, extreme poverty, and by extension national/states assembly passing bills that are citizen-centred extension integrating the informal security network (vigilantee) to protect the ungoverned spaces and by extension strong institutions of the state over primordial loyalty and sentiments, ethnic/religious bias in policy making.

Keywords: Insecurity, Human Security, Poverty/unemployment, Socioeconomic Development, Sustainable Development & Policy Implementation

Introduction

In the pursuit of addressing under-development AIDS, destitution, famishment, and gender bias, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were conceived in 2015 by United Nations. The United Nations in New York adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in September 2015, following the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which nations agreed upon in 2000 and ended in 2015, (Kumari, Kumar, & Vivekadhish, 2016). The MDGs did not include important development goals like electricity and infrastructure, despite not completely neglecting social outcomes. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) highlight the fundamental drivers of sustainable development rather than merely quantifiable achievements, reflecting the difficulties we encounter in development. The SDGs have taken a global view, addressing issues that affect all countries and encouraging public-private partnerships to achieve them, (see Table 1). The United Nations birthed these aspirations in 2015, envisioning a more fortified and equitable future for all. It was envisaged that all nations would have diligently achieved these aspirations by the culmination of 2030.

UN SDG Policy Framework, (2015)

The SDGs encompass an array of seventeen distinct objectives, encompassing Goal 2 (pertaining to nourishment and human well-being), Goal 3 (embracing holistic well-being for every age bracket), and Goal 4 (dedicated to the realm of education). The fourth goal underscores the importance of education, endeavouring to ensure that everyone is endowed with fair and top-notch educational opportunities, facilitating lifelong learning. Alamin and Greenwood (2018) underscore the significance of Goals 11 (centred on safety and sustainability) and 17 (pursuing peaceful and comprehensive sustainable expansion). The attainment of pivotal objectives for sustainable growth and advancement hinges upon the safeguarding of lives and property, as observed in the SGD SAED Workshop of 2023. Encouraging systemic implementation involves distributing implementation targets throughout the goals. In order to achieve success, it is imperative to place a greater emphasis on the links that exist in three specific areas. 1. across different sectors (such as banking, agriculture, energy, and transportation); 2. among various stakeholders (such as municipal councils, government agencies, enterprises, and non-governmental organisations); and 3. Within and among nations with different levels of wealth. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are an enhanced iteration of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) designed to fortify the interconnections among economic, social, and environmental issues. However, it is crucial to ensure that enhancing human well-being in the immediate future does not jeopardise long-term well-being by causing harm to the social and natural resources that our global life support system depends on (Kumar et al., 2016). The United Nations categorises the methods of accomplishing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as funding, technology, capacity building, trade, policy consistency, collaborations, data, monitoring, and accountability. This is where the practical applications of sustainability science truly excel.

However, our main focus here is the security risk (kidnapping & banditry in North-central Nigeria) associated with the implementation of the sustainable development. Firstly, our current global reality is characterised by the frequent occurrence of insurgencies, kidnapping, banditry, terrorism and war. Secondly, non-state actors are increasingly becoming a significant threat to state stability, regardless of their economic status. Throughout history, the occurrence and operation of kidnapping and banditry have been noted in various regions around the world, with records dating back to the 17th century. Banditry has historically thrived in the mountainous regions of countries like Italy, Spain, Greece, and Turkey in Europe (Aisha, 2020). Banditry has also been documented in diverse Asian nations, including Iran, the Philippines, and India (Mohammed, 2019). In Africa, especially in Nigeria, bandits typically carry out their criminal activities in remote areas such as villages, ungoverned space, community markets, and places of worship. Despite the government’s continuous efforts to combat banditry, the issue persists in Nigeria, particularly in the northern region (Awwal, 2020). Banditry poses a significant security challenge in Nigeria as it continues to disrupt the country’s economic, political, and social spheres. According to Aisha (2020), the prevalence and severity of banditry in Nigeria have led to increased regional insecurity, which potentially threatens the process of regional integration in Northern Nigeria. Additionally, research by Saleh (2015) has revealed that numerous bandits from West African countries like Niger and Mali have been recruited to carry out extensive attacks in various nations within the sub-region. They cross the porous borders of West Africa while armed, offering support to their fellow bandits in executing substantial acts of aggression or retaliation. Kidnapping on the other hand, is a prominent security concern that has significantly increased the risk to the overall security of the north-central geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Social insecurity is a harmful phenomenon (Alexander and Klein, 2019).

The need for security emerges as a major concern within the field of social theory and practice, particularly in a context where perceived uncertainty and danger are present. In reaction to the intimidating pressures of uncertainty, rapid change, and complexity, this phenomenon shows a broad yearning for more reliability, stability, and concreteness. Ironically, there is no consensus on what is meant by the phrase “security,” making it impossible to predict with any certainty. Contrarily, it establishes the boundaries of a region that is hotly contested. Obi, Job, Isyaku, Letswa, and Kolawole, (2018), defines security as the condition in which individuals are free from threats to their personal safety and livelihood, including physical harm, illness, unemployment, and violations of their human rights, regardless of their location within a sovereign state. Security could be conceptualised as a “public good” to facilitate the promotion of sustainable human development and the advancement of peace and stability at regional, national, and international levels (Obi, 2017). In Nigeria, the escalating occurrences of terrorism, armed robbery, banditry, abduction, corruption, and ethnic conflict pose a significant threat to the safety and security of individuals and property. The lack of adequate safeguards for the protection of the lives and property of the general populace is a major impediment to the achievement of substantial progress. Both domestic and foreign investors may become uneasy in the presence of a gloomy atmosphere. Access to resources and control over the distribution of benefits are key determinants of numerous disputes (Obi, Usman, & Adegbe, 2020).

The aforementioned concerns function as divisive factors within Nigerian communities. This has led to an alarming state of insecurity, characterised by a variety of criminal activities, including terrorism, piracy, human trafficking, drug trafficking, cultism, kidnapping, armed robbery, advance fee fraud (419), assassination or political killings, thuggery, human sacrifice, and ritual killings, among others. According to Loertscher and Milton (2015), kidnapping incidents on a global scale have increased significantly since 2007. This trend is not restricted to a specific geographical region. In Nigerian society, the prevalence of kidnapping has reached an alarming level. In a similar vein, Kyrian (2009) documented the observations made by the former Inspector General of Police in Nigeria, who highlighted that kidnappers and hostage takers had obtained a total of $15 million in ransom (equivalent to around $100 million) during the period spanning from 2006 to 2009. The surge in incidents of kidnapping poses a significant threat to the well-being and assets of the populace. Kidnapping is a criminal act that is subject to legal consequences in Nigeria, as stipulated in Section 364 of the Criminal Code Act in Nigeria. Individuals found to be engaged in the aforementioned activity are anticipated to be subjected to a punitive measure of a decade-long period of incarceration. In addition to the aforementioned remark, certain states, such as the Southern States; Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Ebonyi, and Rivers, have enacted legislation known as the “Prohibition of Hostage Taking and Related Offences Law.” Those found guilty under this statute are subject to death penalty. Human security and sustainable development are two main variables of this research. The main point is that banditry/kidnapping is a major problem that endangers people’s safety in many ways. Human development and economic advancement become impossible goals in a setting of uncertainty and instability. The issue of sustainable development and human security in the north-central region has been neglected.

The presence of peace greatly facilitates the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of eradicating illiteracy, rendering it a more feasible endeavour. Conversely, the absence of peace renders life devoid of purpose. This study specifically focused on the socio-economic well-being, lives, and properties of individuals residing in the north central geopolitical zone, while also identifying the actors responsible for these incidents. This research aims to address the following inquiries: What are the root causes of banditry/kidnapping in the north-central geopolitical zone of Nigeria? What are the implications of banditry/kidnapping in terms of human security? What are the effects of banditry/kidnapping on socioeconomic development in the areas under study? What are the governmental actions implemented to address the issue of banditry/kidnapping? What are the obstacles associated with addressing the issue of kidnapping in the context of human security? The present study is organised into four distinct sections. Section one provides an overview of the background information pertaining to the paper. Section two focuses on the research methodology employed in the study. Section three encompasses the presentation and discussion of the obtained results. Lastly, Section four addresses the conclusion.

In the present context, this study would function as an enlightening investigation into the significance, origins, classifications, and nature of security challenges within the north-central geopolitical zone. The research holds substantial academic merit, as the significance of a society free from violence in fostering stable economic development cannot be underestimated. Within this particular setting, the study would examine the form and manner in which abduction and inadequate security infrastructure hinder economic development. The analysis highlights the detrimental impact of the event not just on the path of democratisation but also on the economy. The primary focus of this study is to identify and analyse security lessons that may be shared inside the North-Central Geopolitical Zone, as well as on a broader scale within the entire Nigeria State.

Methodology

The research work was carried out across five states in north central geopolitical zone of Nigeria, and the rationale was due to the geographical spread of banditry/kidnapping activities and its effects on human security and socioeconomic development from 2015-2023,

Figure 1: Map showing north central Nigeria,

(Source: Adapted from Usman, Enojo, Ujah, Kakwagh, Ocholi, Obi, 2023)

In this study, the objective was to draw general conclusions about the entire population by employing a multi-stage sampling approach. The sampling process involved several stages, and three random sampling procedures were used. Here’s an overview of the sampling strategy:

  1. Selection of Study Units: A random sample of 15 study units was chosen from the North-Central region, specifically from three Local Governments Areas each from Kogi, Benue, Jos, Niger, and Nassarawa states.
  2. Selection of Council Wards: From the 15 selected study units, a total of 30 council wards were randomly chosen.
  3. Selection of Participants: In the final stage, 13 participants were randomly selected from each of the 30 council wards. This resulted in a total sample size of 390 participants.

A pilot survey and pretest were conducted before the main survey to ensure the reliability of the research instrument. Sixty individuals who were not part of the main sample were given the instrument to complete as part of the pilot study. The Cronbach’s alpha formula was applied to assess the reliability of the instrument, and the final value for the instrument’s Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient was 0.86. Descriptive statistics, including tables and graphs, were used to analyse the data collected during the field survey. After a period of three months, 383 usable surveys remained for examination. The study focused on security challenges to sustainable development in North Central Geopolitical Zone, with reference to Kidnapping/Banditry and Human Security and the relationship between banditry/kidnapping (the independent variable) and its impact on sustainable development vis-a-vis human security and socioeconomic growth (the dependent variables).

Hypothesis

H0: Banditry/kidnapping does not significantly affect sustainable development in North-central geopolitical zone

H1: Banditry/kidnapping does significantly affect sustainable development in North-central geopolitical zone

Multiple Regression and Correlation Coefficient was used to test the hypotheses, while the regression establishes how the variables under this research work affects each other, by showing how one causes the other to change, correlation coefficient established the relationship between the two variables.

Model Specification

The model specification is stated as;

Y = b0 +b1X1 +b2X2 +b3X3 + e……………………………………………….. (i)

Represented as

SED = bo +b1 EBKHS+b2 SESD+b3 SEIIDP+b4 IPUBK+e ……………………… (ii)

Where;

Y = SED (Security Effect of Development), b0 = constant, b1= EBKHS (Effect of banditry/kidnapping on human security), b2= SESD (Security effect on socioeconomic development), b3=SEIIDP (Security effect on Initiation and implementation of developmental projects), b4 = IPUBK (Influence of Poverty/Unemployment on Banditry/Kidnapping and e = error of terms.

Results

Table 2: Research Question One: What are the underlying factors responsible for      kidnapping in North-central geopolitical zone of Nigeria?

Table 2 presents finding, the factors that threaten human security and socio-economic development in Nigeria’s north-central geopolitical zone are as follows: bad governance (poor leadership or corruption) with 31%, poverty with 38%, insecurity with 7%, illiteracy with 2%, unemployment with 22%, the desire to become wealthy quickly with 0%, and political thuggery with 0%. This suggests that among the factors that have been identified as contributing to kidnapping are extreme poverty situation in study areas, poor governance and inadequate security architecture are at the top of the list in the research areas and in Nigeria as well. This finding agrees with Obi and Uche’s (2019) assertion that poor governance and policies implemented by ruling elites, as well as the pervasive corruption that has ravaged the fabric of the Nigerian state to the point where even its security personnel have been corrupted, undermine national unity. This, in turn, breeds security challenges such as banditry/kidnapping for ransom, conflicts between farmers and herders, Boko Haram, arms proliferation, drug trafficking, and organ harvesting in certain regions of the country.

Table 2 and 3 offers information on the total number of reported cases of banditry and kidnapping during the years examined, as well as the corresponding ransom amounts paid. Here’s a summary of the key findings: Benue State reported the highest number of cases, with 504 incidents accounting for 33% of the total, Kogi States reported 415 cases (27%), Jos reported 287 cases (19%), Niger reported 176 cases (11%), Nasarawa reported 164 cases (10%). These findings indicate that banditry/kidnapping incidents are more frequent in the peripheral areas of the states than in their respective state capitals. This situation raises concerns about the safety and security of lives in these areas, which negates the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 2 (food and human security), Goal 3 (healthy lives for all ages), Goal 4 (quality education), Goal 11 (safety and sustainability), and Goal 17 (peaceful and inclusive sustainable development). The narrative also provides specific examples of banditry/kidnapping incidents, including the demanded ransom amounts in table 2.:

  1. May 2008: A kidnapping occurred with a ransom payment of ₦1,500,000.
  2. October 2008: Another kidnapping took place, with the ransom amount undisclosed.
  3. January 2009: A man was taken hostage in Benue and was released upon payment of ₦3,000,000.
  4. September 2009: Another person was taken hostage in an unspecified area with no public disclosure of the ransom.
  5. March 2010: Someone was kidnapped, demanding a ransom of ₦1,550,000.
  6. September 2010: Another kidnapping occurred, with a ₦2,000,000 ransom demand in Jos.
  7. June 2011: An additional kidnapping incident
  8. January 2011: A child was taken hostage in Nasarawa with a ransom request of ₦5,000,000.
  9. September 2012: Another person was taken hostage, demanding ₦3,000,000 in Niger State.
  10. January 2012: A man was kidnapped, but the ransom amount remains unspecified.
  11. 2012 saw the abduction of another man by Fulani’s, who demanded an undisclosed ransom.
  12. October 2013: A passenger on public transport was kidnapped, requiring a ransom of ₦2,000,000.
  13. March 2014: Another kidnapping occurred in the north-central geopolitical zone, with a ransom request of ₦600,000.
  14. August 2014: A man was taken hostage, demanding a ransom of ₦2,000,000. (see table 2-3).

The narrative goes on to describe other incidents, each with its own unique ransom demand. It’s important to note that kidnapping is not exclusive to Nigeria or African countries. The report mentions that efficient policing and low poverty levels in Western Europe have made banditry and kidnapping for ransom extremely rare. However, it highlights “tiger” kidnappings in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, which involve the simultaneous occurrence of robbery and kidnapping. Additionally, kidnappings for economic reasons are becoming more common in Mediterranean countries. The primary concern raised is that the high incidence of kidnappings and banditry in north-central Nigeria could hinder the region’s progress in achieving its sustainable development goals by 2030.

Research Question Two: What are the underlying effects of banditry/kidnapping on livelihood of citizens in North-central geopolitical zone?

Table 4 demonstrates the effects of banditry and kidnapping in North-Central Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria. It was discovered that effect of kidnapping on victim psychologically/emotionally is high (13%) in the sample areas, insecurity in north-central 9%, It was also observed that the effect of kidnapping is antidevelopment to efforts of sustainable development goals (SDG) with 18%, financial loss to the victim’s family 14%, sadness in the victim’s family, 10%, negative image to the country 6%. Banditry/kidnapping also reduces foreign investments, 11%, creates fear in the neighbourhoods and in the county 13%, and increase in the government expenditure on security 6%. This findings shows that banditry and kidnapping threatens and undermines Sustainable Development Goal; goal 2, (food and human security), goal 3 (healthy lives for all ages), 4, (Quality education), 11 (safety and sustainability), 17(peaceful and inclusive sustainable development) from succeeding in North-Central Nigeria. This finding is in consonance with Usman, etal. (2020) who stated that kidnapping is fast destroying economic good and can destroy the survival of Nigeria as a nation. In some places, factories are closing up, people no longer visit their villages, and social and economic activities are slowly stopping. Uche, et.al (2023) notes that on the individual basis, much money (up to N20 billion) has been spent by the relatives of the victims as ransom to free the victims between 2015 and 2023 in Nigeria. At the governmental level, the economic effects of kidnapping involve the expenditure on security and security agents. For instance, the Lagos State Governments was also reported to have spent three billion naira in two years on security alone. Obi and Uche (2019) found that kidnapping activities have in many ways affected socio-economic life in great measures. First, many lives have been lost. Most victims who tried to resist abduction or who could not pay the ransom as demanded by the kidnappers or pay on time have been killed.

Figure 3 findings indicate that insecurity poses a significant obstacle to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), leading to various far-reaching consequences, including a notable increase in regional poverty. Here is a summary of the key findings:

  1. Poverty: Sixty-six percent of respondents agreed that insecurity contributes to increased poverty in the region.
  2. Education: Sixty-eight percent of respondents believed that the prevalence of banditry would negatively affect literacy and education in the area.
  3. Unemployment: A substantial majority of respondents, 71 percent, expressed concern that banditry would lead to a higher unemployment rate.
  4. Food Availability: Nearly seven out of ten respondents (69 percent) believed that banditry would impact the availability of food in the region.
  5. Access to Basic Necessities: A significant percentage, 81 percent, expressed that the country’s security challenges would make it more challenging to access essential services like medical care.
  6. Infrastructure: Over half (58 percent) of the respondents believed that the prevalence of banditry would affect the state’s infrastructure negatively.
  7. Economic Impact: Similarly, more than half (57 percent) agreed that the Bandit State would have economic repercussions, affecting the state’s overall wealth.

These findings underscore the multifaceted challenges and adverse effects that insecurity, such as banditry, can have on various aspects of life and development within the region. If you have further questions or need additional information, please feel free to ask.

Table 5 underlines the menace of banditry/kidnapping by previous studies on educational and sustainable development goals. The occurrence of attacks targeting students can be attributed to the timeframe of 2014, during which Boko Haram perpetrated the abduction of around 276 Chibok girls in Borno State. From the aforementioned timeframe until September 1, 2021, the Government Day Secondary School experienced the abduction of its students by bandits of which ransom were paid (refer to Table 4&5). Subsequently, the region has observed several incidents of school attacks, resulting in the unfortunate loss of lives among students or their unaccounted whereabouts.

Additionally, in Ilorin, individuals involved in criminal activities targeted Kwara State University Malete in Moro Local Government Area. In 2021, kidnappers abducted Khadijat Isaiq, a 300-level Mass Communication student, as she was with a companion en route to her off-campus residence. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of N50 million from the university authorities (Punch News, 2021). In a different incident, around 6 o’clock, unidentified assailants kidnapped Professor John Alabi, an academician from Kogi State University, Anyigba. The incident occurred as he was about to enter his residence. The abductors, armed and using a Mercedes-Benz vehicle, took him to an undisclosed location and demanded a ransom of N20 million from his spouse (Daily Post, 2021). These incidents underscore the critical importance of addressing security concerns, particularly in educational institutions, as they have far-reaching implications for students’ safety, academic pursuits, and the broader social and economic context of the affected regions.

Research Question Three: What is the impact kidnapping as it concerns human security in North-central geopolitical zone in with 17 goals of SDG

Figure 4 presents findings on the implication of kidnapping as it concerns human security. Findings reveal that majority of the respondents 136(36%) representing 54% agree that kidnapping affects human security by affecting promotion of developmental stride and human security. Furthermore, 118 respondents representing 31% indicates that kidnapping leads to bridge of national security and obstruct political dividends from reaching the masses, 72(18%) death and displacement, while 65 respondents representing 17% indicates that kidnapping in relation to human security lead to human capital flight from North-Central Geopolitical Zone due to lack of security of life and properties.

Research Question Four: What are the suggestive measures needed in line with SGD 17 goals by government to put an end to kidnapping in North-central geopolitical zone?

The information presented in table 6 outlines the measures the government has implemented in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to combat abductions in the North Central Geopolitical Zone. According to Table 6, where 18% of respondents perceive extensive youth empowerment programmes as a solution to kidnapping in the North Central Geopolitical Zone, this indicates that addressing the issue can be resolved by empowering the youth with various opportunities and resources. In addition, the information shows that nine percent of respondents think that reliable security services that are provided over the entirety of the North Central Geopolitical Zone have the ability to assist in finding a solution to the problem of kidnappings. Another 12% of respondents view religion education as a potential solution to the problem. This indicates that some respondents feel that moral and religious advice can play a role in addressing the situation. In addition, eight percent of respondents are aware of the dangers that come along with being kidnapped.

In addition, the analysis suggests that putting an end to armed organisations and the illegal holding of firearms would address just 10% of the problem of abduction. To put more focus on the socioeconomic components of the problem, around 17% of respondents feel that alleviating poverty would be a big step towards finding a solution to the issue. A further 10% of respondents emphasised how important it was for individuals to refrain from being greedy as a solution, while 16% of the participants felt that the government should promote physical employment as a means to solve the issue. The data lend credence to the assertion made by Obi (2017) that the registration of SIM cards is part of an effort to cut down on the number of kidnappings that occur in Nigeria. In addition, the findings of this study provide credence to Osaghea’s (2011) contention that in order to effectively confront criminals who are armed, police officers need to get training in infantry tactics, the proper handling of weapons, and anti-terrorist techniques. Convicts frequently have information of other criminals who conduct crimes outside of jail, and Osaghea recommends that prison guards should be involved in attempts to prevent abductions because of this. Cultivating virtue in individuals and imparting moral values can play a crucial role in putting an end to kidnapping activities in Nigeria.

Research Question Five: What are the challenges of tackle banditry/kidnapping in relation to human security and sustainable development in North-central geopolitical         zone?

Figure 5 shed light on the challenges faced in combating abductions while maintaining human security in the North-Central geopolitical zone. The findings reveal the following key aspects: Problems with Law Enforcement: Approximately 54% of the respondents identified issues with law enforcement as a significant challenge in addressing the problem of abductions. The effect of hard drugs: The majority of respondents, who constituted 58% of the study participants, indicated that hard drugs have negative effect in contributing to kidnapping/banditry or hostage taking. Political interference: An overwhelming majority of respondents, 83%, identified political interference in the activities of the security sector in the North-Central geopolitical zone as a significant factor contributing to the problem of abductions. This exemplifies the harm that results from political meddling in issues pertaining to security.  A Lack of Political will and assistance from the Government, the respondents acknowledged that a lack of political will and assistance from the government was a significant obstacle to lowering the occurrence of kidnappings in the region that was the focus of the inquiry. According to the findings of the survey, 58% of respondents stated that a lack of commitment was hindering attempts to prevent abduction.

Limited financing; it is interesting to note that the majority of respondents, 58%, did not consider limited financing to be a concern when it came to solving kidnapping in the research domain. This hints that, in their opinion, financing might not be the major concern when it comes to preventing kidnappings. Residents’ lack of confidence in security personnel, this is a huge obstacle since the majority of residents, 61%, are concerned about the fact that some security personnel are corrupt. The issue of residents’ lack of confidence in security personnel is a serious problem. Internal corruption in the security industry; An overwhelming majority of respondents (75%) said that internal corruption in the security industry is a significant concern. The efficiency of security initiatives may be hampered as a result of corruption inside the organisation.  Inadequate staff: A considerable percentage of respondents (72%) reported that the lack of enough staff is one of the contributing factors to the difficulties that come with tackling abduction in the studied locations. Because there is a dearth of staff, the capacity to successfully combat kidnappings may be hindered. This suggests that the difficulties involved with preventing kidnappings in the North-Central geopolitical zone may be broken down into a variety of subcategories. They include problems with law enforcement, the impact of hard narcotics, political meddling in security affairs, a lack of political will and aid from the government, questions about the trustworthiness of security officers, internal corruption within the security sector, and an inadequate number of security personnel. It is essential to have an understanding of and work to overcome these difficulties in order to improve human security and bring the number of kidnappings in the region down.

Hypothesis

H0: Banditry/kidnapping does not significantly affect sustainable development in North-central geopolitical zone

H1: Banditry/kidnapping does significantly affect sustainable development in North-central geopolitical zone

Hypotheses Testing

Model Summary 
ModelRR SquareAdjusted R SquareStd. Error of the Estimate 
1.892a.796.793.20007 
ANOVAb
ModelSum of SquaresDfMean SquareFSig.
1Regression31.2253410.408260.029.000a
Residual8.005349.040  
Total39.230383   
a. Insecurity features are the major influencer of destruction of life and property, banditry/kidnapping socioeconomic meltdown and lack of sustainable development approach implementation.  
a. Predictors, p. (Constant), Insecurity features are the major influencer of destruction of life and property, Banditry/kidnapping, socioeconomic meltdown and lack of sustainable development approach implementation. 
b. Dependent Variable. Sustainable Development
Coefficientsa     Value Asymp. Std. Errora Approx. Tb Approx. Sig. Interval by Interval Pearson’s R .709 .024 14.308 .000c Ordinal by Ordinal Spearman Correlation .722 .032 14.850 .000c N of Valid Cases 383       a. Not assuming the null hypothesis.         b. Using the asymptotic standard error assuming the null hypothesis.   c. Based on normal approximation.        

 The R-square value is 0.796, which means that security in the study area determines about 79.6% of the safety of life and property as a factor in socioeconomic growth and sustainable development. When this answer is compared to the calculation error, it still shows a 79.3% difference. And the fact that the ANOVA result is 31.225 (0.00) means that the total regression result is important. This is more proof that banditry/kidnapping factors have an effect on human security and sustainable development in the study area that cannot be ignored. The coefficient shows that there is a strong positive relationship (70.9%) between security challenges such as banditry/kidnapping and sustainable development in the study area. This relationship has a statistical significance of 14.308 and is 0.000. In addition, this shows that a rise in banditry/kidnappings (insecurity) will cause a rise breakdown of sustainable development and human security problems. There is a significant (0.000) and good (0.722) link between the things (Bad governance, Poverty/Unemployment) that lead to banditry/kidnapping that threatens sustainable development in the study area.

Conclusion

Kidnapping/Banditry, which includes armed theft, is very bad for implementing SDG goals, human security and Nigeria’s economy development. In its study on the economic benefits of peace, the Institute of Economics and Peace (IEP) found that Nigeria’s lack of safety would cost the country 8% of its GDP in 2021, or $132.59 billion. Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS, 2022) also says that activities related to agriculture have harmed 26.95% of the country’s GDP. This amounts to a big chunk of the country’s total economic output. In the same way, the Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria (MAN) reported that the price of local raw materials dropped by 56.5% in the first half of 2020 compared to 64% in the first half of 2019, which means that prices dropped by 7.5% overall. In the first half of 2019, 64% of people said the same thing. Unfortunately, this is the case because doing business is very dangerous and risky right now. Prices of goods and services are going up because of inflation, and more and more people are losing their jobs. Because of these challenges, it has become harder to help millions of people in Nigeria get out of poverty and improve their standard of living.

The persistent occurrence of banditry/kidnapping poses significant challenges to society, leading to adverse consequences in the realms of politics, social dynamics, cultural fabric, and economic stability. The objective of this research is to gain insights into the phenomenon of security challenges towards sustainable development and explore strategies for its prevention, applicable to individuals of varying social statuses. There is a consensus among scholars that banditry/kidnapping is a pervasive issue on a global scale, representing a multifaceted phenomenon deeply embedded within contemporary society. This criminal act has evolved into a strategic tool employed by organised crime groups for diverse objectives. The incidence of kidnappings has had significant and rapid growth, characterised by a geometric progression. During the period from 2014 to 2017, a substantial number of individuals, including young Chibok girls, government officials, politicians, and royalty, were subjected to the act of kidnapping, surpassing a total of 2000 victims.

The research findings in this paper shows that the threat of kidnapping/banditry is growing because of high unemployment, a weak security system, poverty, the fact that Nigeria’s borders are open to smugglers, the easy availability of guns, and the large number of poorly controlled areas where bandits can hide. This is because of the high rate of kidnapping and banditry, which has caused a lot of theft and violence, making the area unsafe in every way. It is common for families of victims to talk about how hard it was for them to find peace while knowing that a family member was away from home and constantly sick and miserable. There are family members of the victim who become addicted to drugs and alcohol, have suicidal thoughts, cannot function normally, feel helpless, and think that their loved one is dead for good. Over the past few years, there has been a wave of student kidnappings and demands for ransom in the north-central region of Nigeria. This has caused a lot of confusion among parents, security staff, and federal and state government officials. In fact, it’s become such an existential threat that national dailies can make money by writing story after story about this terrible threat that is both interesting and sad. The kidnapping of students and the demand for ransom money are just the next steps in the ideology’s development.

The HDI reports that ongoing banditry/kidnapping in Nigeria has worsened the already dire human development condition. Despite claims that HDI is just a wide measure of life quality limited to evaluations of economic standards of living, the effect of kidnapping/banditry and insecurity on the wellbeing of the population is quite important. The current circumstances provide a perilous position that jeopardises the prospects of children, who are commonly seen as both the specific future leaders of the nation and the future leaders of the nation as a whole. This indicates a pressing necessity for all relevant parties to promptly undertake measures to halt the negative trajectory.

Declaration of Interests

We declare that the authors have no conflict of interest of whatsoever and that we have no competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper

Acknowledgement

We acknowledge all the respondents across the 30 council wards, 15 LGA and five States in North central geopolitical zone.

Funding

The authors received no funding for this research work.

Limitation of Study

The study did not also evaluate the policy model of SDG implementation in Nigeria. Our focus was on examination of security challenges to sustainable development in North-central Nigeria. This is due to the fact there they were limited work in these areas. Also to ascertain people knowledge and awareness of the negative impact of insecurity on human security and social welfare program like SDG. Additionally, the scope of the study was restricted to few areas selected across the sample state which may not be applicable to other parts of the country as its concerns impact of security challenge in the implementation of SDGs.

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APPENDIX (es)

Figure 3: Multiple response to the Іmpаct on Socio-Economic Develοpment of North-Central Geopolitical Zone

(Source: Field survey, 2023)

Figure 4: Implication of kidnapping as it concerns human security in North-central geopolitical zone

(Source: Field Survey, 2023)

Figure 5: Challenges of tackle banditry/kidnapping in relation to human security and sustainable development in North-central geopolitical zone.

 (Source: Field Survey, 2023)

Table 1: Research Question One: What are the underlying factors responsible for kidnapping in North-central geopolitical zone of Nigeria?

S/NVariablesFrequencyTotal  
1Bad Governance (poor leadership and Corruption)11931%
2Poverty14638%
3Insecurity287%
4Illiteracy52%
5Unemployment8522%
6Quest to get rich quickly–0%
7Political Thuggery–0%
Total383(100.0%)

         (Source: Field Survey, 2023)

Table 2: Selected Published Cases of Ransom Paid to Kidnapping across North Central Geopolitical Zone.

S/NYearMonthStatesRansom
12008MayNorth-central statesOne Million Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N1.5m )
OctoberNorth-central states 
22009JanuaryBenueThree Million Naira (N3,000,000.)
September  
32010MarchJosOne Million Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N1.5m )
SeptemberJosTwo Million Naira(N 2,000,000)
42011JuneNasarawa 
52012JanuaryNasarawaFive million naira (N 5,000,000)
SeptemberNigerThree Million Naira (N 3,000,000.)
62013JanuaryNiger 
MayNiger 
OctoberNigerTwo Million Naira (N 2,000,000)
72014      MarchNorth-central statesSix Hundred Thousands Naira (N 600,000)
AugustBenueTwo Million Naira (N 2,000,000)

(Source: (i) Police Report, 2022 (ii) Compiled by the Authors 2023)

Table 3: The Nigeria Police Summary of selected Published Report N=1,547 Banditry and Kidnapping Cases.

    Years under Review  Kogi  State    Benue StateNiger State    Nasarawa StateJos
Number of reported casesNumber of person arrestedNumber of reported casesNumber of person arrestedNumber of reported cases
20152342333821
20165563413324
20177291221024
20184373201245
2019883331034
202028258
20213471171864
20223491152223
20236433231644
Total415 (27%)505(33%)176(11%)164(10%).287 (19%),

(Source: Summary of Published Police Report 2015-2023)           

Table 4: Research Question Two: What are the underlying effects of banditry/kidnapping on livelihood of citizens in North-central geopolitical zone?

S/NVariablesFrequency N=383Total
1Psychologically/emotionally imbalance to the victims50 13%
2Insecurity in North Central34 9%
3Antidevelopment efforts of SDG goals67 18%
4Financial loss to the victim’s family55 14%
5Sadness in the victim’s family40 10%
6Negative image on the country23 6%
7Reduces foreign investments43 11%
8It creates fear in the neighborhoods and in the country50 13%
9Increase in the government expenditure on security21 6%
Total383100%

            (Source: Field survey, 2023)

Table 5: Some Selected Cases of Kidnaped Students in Nigeria.

S/NDateLocationSchoolFigureAbductors
1April14, 2014Chibok, Borno StateChibok Girls Secondary School276Boko Haram
2February 19, 2018Dapchi, Yobe StateGovernment Girls’ Science and Technical College110Boko Haram
3December 11, 2020Kankara, Katsina StateGovernment Boys Science Secondary SchoolOver 300Bandits
4December 19, 2020Dandume, Katsina StateIslamic School StudentsOver 80Bandits
5February 17, 2021Kagara, Niger StateGovernment Science School41Bandits
6February 26, 2021Jangebe, Zamfara StateGovernment Girls Secondary School317Bandits
7March, 11, 2021Afaka, Kaduna StateFederal College of Forestry Mechanization39Bandits
8April 20, 2021Kaduna, Kaduna StateGreenfield University20Bandits
9May 30, 2021Regina, Niger StateSalihu Tanko Islamic SchoolAbout 150Bandits
10June 17, 2021Birnin-Yauri, Kebbi StateFederal Government College102Bandits
10July 5, 2021KadunaBaptist High School121Bandits
11August 16, 2021Bakura, Zamfara StateCollege of Agriculture and Animal Science15Bandits
12September 1, 2021Kaya, Zamfara StateGovernment Day Secondary School73Bandits

(Adapted from Okoye, &   Nwaka-Nwandu, 2024, Effect of Banditry and Kidnapping on The Development of Selected Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria).

Table 6:  Research Question Four: What are the suggestive measures needed in line with SGD 17 goals by government to put an end to kidnapping in North-central geopolitical zone?

S/NVariablesFrequency N=383Total  
1Massive youth empowerment scheme68 18%
2Adequate security services all over the north-central geopolitical zone34 9%
3Religious teaching46 12%
4Awareness the dangers of kidnapping29 8%
5Wipe out arms groups and illegal possession of weapons39 10%
6Poverty alleviation programmes66 17%
7Embrace hard work spirit60 16%
8People should shun greediness41 10%
 Total383 100%

(Source: Field Survey, 2023)

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