Residents of Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, are living in fear following a rise in kidnappings across several communities. Armed abductors are reportedly targeting homes, abducting individuals at gunpoint, and demanding millions of naira in ransom.
One victim, who spoke under strict anonymity, recounted being seized outside his home at about 8:50 p.m. by young men wielding firearms. He said he was forced to trek for over 11 hours into the bush and was physically assaulted during the ordeal.
“They spoke a dialect that suggested they were Fulani youths,” the victim said. “They beat me mercilessly and warned me not to involve the police. My family had to borrow millions of naira to pay the ransom.”
Another victim, abducted within Lafia town, described the kidnappers as well-coordinated and supported by informants. “They kept me in a hideout near Doma Barracks until the ransom was paid. Nigeria is in serious trouble,” he lamented.
Residents have identified several areas as kidnapping hotspots, including Lafia North, Shabu, Danka, Tudun Kauri, Tudun Amba, Kwandere, and the vicinities of the Polytechnic and College of Agriculture. Many fear that criminal syndicates may be collaborating with motorcycle and tricycle operators to track and target victims.
Mr. Justus Adelabu, a resident of Shabu, blamed the worsening security situation on an influx of unfamiliar faces. He cited a recent incident in which a police officer was reportedly abducted and killed near the College area.
Community members are calling on security agencies to intensify patrols, monitor transport operators more closely, and dismantle what they describe as a growing network of kidnappers.
As of the time of filing this report, police authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the rising cases.
