In response to the rising tide of kidnappings and ransom demands, Enugu State lawmakers are proposing an amendment to the state’s Criminal Code that would criminalize the payment of ransoms to kidnappers.
Enugu, like many Nigerian states, has seen a surge in kidnappings. Families of victims are forced to pay hefty ransoms to secure the release of abducted victims. The legislation hopes to dismantle the financial engine of these kidnappings, disincentivizing abductions and pushing law enforcement to prioritize rescue efforts.
The bill, championed by Honourable Iloabuchi Aniagu, was presented to the Enugu State House of Assembly on Tuesday. Aniagu said the proposed law would cripple kidnapping operations while lamenting that “they (kidnap gangs) have turned kidnapping to a lucrative business.”
The bill sparked a lively debate among the lawmakers. Supporters believe it would reduce the incentive for criminal activities and ultimately lead to a decrease in abduction cases. Opponents, however, raise concerns about the potential unintended consequences. They argue that outlawing ransom payments could endanger the lives of hostages, as families and authorities would be left with limited options for securing their release.
Amidst the heated debate, Nigerian authorities faced the daunting task of striking a delicate balance between deterring criminal activities and safeguarding the lives of kidnapped victims.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
