Founder of the Community Development and Rights Advocacy Foundation, Steven Kefas, has raised serious concerns over the worsening insecurity in parts of Kaduna State, warning that proceeds from ransom payments are allegedly being used by non-state actors to build armed networks that could threaten national ility.
Speaking in a monitored interview, Kefas said that while there has been a decline in mass casualty s in Kaduna compared to previous years, kidnapping has surged in areas such as Kajuru, Chikun and Kaura local government areas. He described the situation in several rural communities as dire, noting the complete absence of government presence, infrastructure and basic services.
According to him, many of the affected communities lack roads, electricity, schools, healthcare facilities and even telecommunication networks, leaving residents vulnerable to armed groups who operate with little resistance. Kefas said kidnappings have become a daily occurrence, often underreported, with women and children frequently targeted.
He criticised the initial denial by local authorities following the recent abduction of 177 worshippers from three churches in Kajuru, describing it as irresponsible and damaging to public trust. Kefas insisted the incident occurred, revealing that 11 victims later escaped, accounting for conflicting figures reported publicly.
Kefas further alleged that ransom payments are directly linked to the procurement of weapons. Citing accounts from a former kidnap victim, he claimed that arms suppliers often arrive at terrorist camps on the same day ransom is delivered, suggesting an organised cycle of abduction, payment and rearmament.
He warned that the situation goes beyond criminality, pointing to targeted s, land displacement and cross-border infiltration of armed fighters from the Sahel region. According to him, these factors indicate the gradual formation of a private terror army.
Kefas called on government to move beyond denial and symbolic visits, urging decisive military action, transparency and political will to reclaim ungoverned spaces and restore citizens’ confidence.
I think ransom payments fuel more kidnappings. Its a vicious cycle! We need to find a better solution fast.
Do you think stopping ransom payments will really solve the issue, or will it just make things worse? Curious to hear more opinions on this.
I believe ransom payments fuel kidnappings. What do you think? Lets discuss this controversial issue further.
Im not convinced ransom payments are fueling private terror armies. Seems like a simplistic explanation for a complex issue.
I understand the concern about ransom payments fueling terrorism, but cutting off funds could endanger hostages. Its a tough situation.
Do you think ransom payments are inadvertently fueling private terror armies in Kaduna? Its a slippery slope, what are your thoughts?
I think its important to consider the implications of ransom payments funding terror groups. Its a complex issue that needs serious discussion.
I think ransom payments do more harm than good – they just fuel the cycle of violence. Time to break free from this vicious cycle!
I disagree, ransom payments may be necessary to save lives in the short term. Long-term solutions must be prioritized.
I think its worth considering the unintended consequences of ransom payments in fueling terror groups. Makes you wonder what the alternative solutions could be.