Avanger M.Y., Gendaga A.C.

Keywords: Kidnapping, socio-economic development, Benue Valley Region, ransom payment

Abstract

This study assesses the implications of kidnapping on socio-economic development in Benue Valley Region, Nigeria. The study adopted descriptive cross sectional survey research design. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 400 respondents who completed structured questionnaire. The study’s results revealed that kidnapping have
negative implications on socio-economic development in Benue Valley Region, Nigeria. The negative impact of kidnapping in the region have affected businesses, reduced farming activities, increased payment of ransom, loss of employment, increased security expenses,
migration/relocation, increased fear and restricted movement, reduced
church/market attendance, affected social gatherings (school, hospital,
festival). The study concludes that kidnapping have negative implications
on socio-economic development in Benue Valley Region, Nigeria. The
study therefore recommends collaborative efforts from government
agencies, security forces, and local communities to address the root causes of kidnapping and promote socio-economic development in Benue Valley Region, Nigeria. The study also recommends immediate steps like
strengthening border patrol, improving inter-agency intelligence sharing and addressing root causes like unemployment. Likewise, the study
recommends imposition of stiffer penalties for those found in the act of
kidnapping.

Author Biography

Avanger M.Y., Gendaga A.C.

Department of Sociology, University of Mkar, Mkar, Benue State, Nigeria

Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

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