Factors and consequences of kidnapping as a threat to national security: A situational analysis of Nasarawa State - Nigeria

Abstract

One of the most pressing issues confronting contemporary nation-state is guaranteeing national security in the face of numerous and increasing security threats. Kidnapping occurs throughout Nigeria, it is a national problem that has infiltrated the country's fabric with major effects for the victims and their families, as well as the state as a whole. This necessitates a thorough investigation of the problem in order to pinpoint its underlying causes and catastrophic implications. The Descriptive design was adopted for this study in which 400 respondents were selected by random sampling technique. A questionnaire comprising of 30
items was used to collect data. Data was analysed using Percentage, Mean and Standard Deviation while hypothesis was tested using linear regression at 0.05 alpha level. The findings of the study revealed factors responsible for increase in kidnapping in Nasarawa State, Nigeria which include poverty, inequality, obtaining a ransom, and forcing the government or the enemy to succumb to some demands. Factors responsible for the increase of kidnapping have positive and significant influence on the consequences of kidnapping on national security β = .537, t statistic of 12.68. Consequent upon the findings, it is suggested that both individuals and government should be more proactive in creating jobs for the teeming youth population. Gainful employment within the law will reduce the drive to crime as a means of survival.