Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has raised alarm over the growing insecurity in the country, disclosing that Nigerians have paid an estimated five billion naira as ransom fees to kidnappers since 2016.
He said the amount exposes the alarming growth of this criminal enterprise in the country.
Kalu stated this at a national dialogue on state Policing theme “pathways to peace: Reimagining policing in Nigeria organised by the House of Representatives in Abuja on Monday.
“Since 2016, estimates suggest over ₦5 billion has been paid in ransoms to kidnappers, a figure that starkly exposes the alarming growth of this criminal enterprise in the country.
“Furthermore, the 2024 Global Terrorism Index paints a concerning picture, ranking Nigeria fourth in Sub-Saharan
Africa and eighth globally for countries most impacted by terrorism.
“These statistics underscore the urgent need for a multi-layered policing approach that prioritizes local security and enables a more responsive policing environment in Nigeria.”
Kalu maintained that the National Assembly, particularly the House of Representatives, recognised the gravity of this situation, noting that the lawmakers were firmly committed to exploring all viable options that will lead to a safer and more secure Nigeria for its citizens.
According to him, the present policing structure necessitates a data-driven evaluation.
The deputy speaker emphasised that the United Nations recommends a police-to-citizen ratio of 1:450 (one police officer per 600 citizens) but regrettably, Nigeria’s current reality falls far short of this benchmark.
“As reported by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) in November 2023, Nigeria has a national police force of approximately 370,000 officers. This translates to a concerning ratio of roughly one officer per 600 citizens. This significant understaffing is further compounded by resource deficiencies,” he added.
Kalu said: “He said: “I also want to recall our memory of the fact that this critical conversation on state policing gained significantmomentum following an emergency meeting in February 2024 between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and state governors at the Aso Rock Villa.
“This particular gathering highlighted state policing as a national priority, reflecting a deep understanding of the need for a new approach to tackling insecurity.
“Divergent Paths Nigerians are understandably divided in their proposed solutions to the nation’s security challenges. One school of thought advocates for a return to multilayered policing. Proponents of this approach argue for the re-establishment of state police forces to operate alongside the existing federal police structure.
“They believe this competitive model would incentivize states to prioritize security within their territories, ultimately attracting businesses and residents while boosting state economies through increased job creation and tax revenue.”
