In a recent interview, former Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr Mike Ejiofor, shares insights into the escalating issue of kidnapping in Nigeria.
Ejiofor, who is also a kidnap victim, highlights both interim and long-term measures the government can adopt to address the growing security challenges.
Ejiofor acknowledges the concern over the perceived surge in insecurity but emphasizes the need for adequate resource deployment to tackle the problem effectively.
He calls for proper oversight to ensure budget allocations for the security sub-sector are judiciously utilized, urging leaders to eschew extravagant lifestyles.
Expressing his perspective on the economic dimension of kidnapping, Ejiofor notes that the current hardships drive individuals to view it as a lucrative industry.
He advocates for a regulated liberalization of arms for private guards and vigilantes, supervised by the police, as a means to enhance security.
The former DSS Director underscores the targeting of traditional rulers as a tactic to destabilize the government, stressing the importance of vigilance and security measures at various levels of society.
Ejiofor suggests posting rank and file police officers to their respective geopolitical zones for better intelligence gathering.
Addressing the grim trend of kidnappers killing their captives despite receiving ransom, Ejiofor asserts that such acts aim to discredit the government.
He acknowledges the complexity of the issue and emphasizes the need for government intervention to prevent further advances into key areas like the Federal Capital Territory.
On the contentious issue of ransom payment, Ejiofor admits to a change in perspective after becoming a victim himself. He points out the dilemma faced by families and suggests a more nuanced approach, including supervised payments for gathering information.
He argues against the imposition of capital punishment for kidnappers, advocating instead for judicial reforms and setting up special tribunals for timely trials.
In outlining measures to address the situation, Ejiofor proposes both short-term and long-term solutions. He urges the withdrawal of police personnel from VIPs to bolster manpower against the security threat.
Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration, deployment of security forces in strategic circles, and the creation of state police.
Ejiofor emphasizes the need for legislative action, calling on the National Assembly to amend laws to accommodate state police and permit vigilante groups to carry firearms
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