In a significant victory against organized crime, the Lagos State Police Command recently overpowered a deadly gang of kidnappers that had terrorized Isolo, Okota, Ejigbo, and Ladipo areas for eight months. The successful operation led to the death of nine gang members and the recovery of firearms, walkie-talkies, and vehicles.
While we commend the bravery and commitment of our law enforcement officers, it is vital to address the broader factors contributing to the rise of kidnapping and crime across Nigeria. Political corruption has weakened institutions, compromised the rule of law, and fueled socioeconomic disparities that enable criminal activities.
Recent data from the recently published Africa Organised Crime Index 2023 – compiled by the Enhancing Africa’s Response to Transnational Organised Crime (Enact) project – ranks Nigeria second, with Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) topping the continental charts when it comes to the scourge of organised crime.
Historically, high-profile corruption cases have often been handled with questionable leniency, like the Abdulrasheed Maina "pension thief" scandal and the $2 billion arms deal involving former National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki, The Betta Edu case, the Tunji Ojo case, The Ikoyi scandal and so many more. This contrasts sharply with the stringent approach taken during the military regime's "War Against Indiscipline" campaign in the 1980s.
To effectively combat kidnapping and other crimes, Nigeria must adopt a zero-tolerance stance against corruption and enforce a consistent rule of law that applies equally to all citizens. Law enforcement agencies must prosecute corrupt politicians with the same determination as they do when combating violent criminals.
I’m chief Dr Patrick Osagie Eholor otherwise known as Ultimate Equal, President One Love Foundation