Insecurity: 15 states enlist 50,000 vigilantes against kidnappers

In an effort to confront the rising threat of kidnappers and bandits operating freely across the country, 15 state governors have organized vigilante squads comprising no fewer than 52,106 individuals to combat the criminals.

Numerous Nigerians have been abducted in recent weeks, with the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Lagos, and several other states facing increased attacks.

Despite the deployment of troops and police operatives, the security challenge persists. On Monday, gunmen killed two Ekiti monarchs, while suspected bandits abducted five pupils and four staff members, demanding a N100 million ransom for their release.

In response to this alarming situation, the Delta State Government has established 2,400 vigilante groups in the 11 local government areas of the state. The Director-General on Security Matters, Mr. David Tonwe, stated that these groups, including hunters, are working effectively, with ongoing efforts to cover all 25 local governments.

To address the abduction epidemic in Kano, the state government initiated a training program for 2,500 security personnel. The aim is to enhance job opportunities for youth and strengthen the state's security architecture. Similarly, in Plateau State, Governor Caleb Mutfwang increased the strength of 'Operation Rainbow' to over 700 persons to bolster security.

Sokoto State has recruited 2,000 individuals into the newly established community guard corps, while Anambra State has its Anambra Vigilante Services to complement federal security efforts.

Bayelsa has a 607-man vigilante group funded by the state government, and Ogun State boasts over 16,500 members in the Vigilante Service of Nigeria and So Safe Corps, working alongside security forces.

Osun Amotekun Corps, with 354 personnel, is set to recruit an additional 650 members. In Benue State, an estimated 3,000 personnel are part of officially recognized outfits tackling insecurity.

In Gombe, 'Operation Hattara' has recruited 2,000 youths, while Ebonyi State Neighbourhood Watch Security Outfit has deployed 3,000 personnel to address various crimes.

Akwa Ibom engaged 500 youths in the Ibom Community Watch Constables, and Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki ordered the re-accreditation of over 6,500 operatives of the state's Security Vigilante Network.

Katsina State enrolled 2,400 youths in its Community Watch Corps to protect citizens from bandit attacks, and Zamfara State launched 2,645 members of the State Community Protection Guards.

Retired military officer John Sura emphasized the importance of ensuring vigilant appointments and adequate training for these vigilantes to be effective against security threats. Kabir Adamu, Managing Director at Beacon Security and Intelligence Limited, noted that governors resort to vigilantes due to the limited deployment of security forces, particularly in rural areas.

In conclusion, the present security situation has prompted state governments to take proactive measures, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts between vigilantes and formal security agencies. General Aliyu Gusau recently highlighted the inadequacy of the current single police force structure in addressing the nation's security challenges.