Government Issues Warning Against Crowdfunding For Kidnap Ransoms, Citing Security Concerns

Government Issues Warning Against Crowdfunding For Kidnap Ransoms, Citing Security Concerns....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Nigerian Federal Government issued a stern warning on Wednesday, cautioning the public against resorting to public crowdfunding, especially through social media, to raise funds for victims of kidnapping. The Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, conveyed this message during a press briefing following the first Federal Executive Council meeting of 2024, chaired by President Bola Tinubu in Abuja…….CONTINUE READING

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The minister’s warning follows recent tragic incidents of kidnapping in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, where kidnappers escalated their ransom demands from N60 million to N100 million per victim after concerned citizens initiated online crowdfunding efforts to meet the initial demands.

Tragically, in a recent abduction case in Sagwari Layout, Dutse, Abuja, ten individuals were taken, and three lost their lives when the families failed to promptly pay the ransom. Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, supported crowdfunding after an acquaintance contributed N50 million towards meeting the ransom target, sparking concerns in the social media space about the implications and precedents set by such initiatives.

Minister Badaru termed the situation unfortunate and emphasized the need to halt public crowdfunding, stating that it only emboldens kidnappers and exacerbates the overall security situation. He attributed the recent surge in kidnappings around Abuja’s suburbs to the activities of kidnappers and bandits, who sought refuge following operations in the neighboring North-Central and Northwestern States.

Assuring the public, Badaru stated that security agencies are determined to combat criminal activities and restore safety. He emphasized that the President has provided the necessary support to address the security challenges, and efforts are underway to curtail the movement of criminals.

Regarding the issue of crowdfunding, the minister underscored the existing laws against ransom payments, expressing concern over the negative impact of public appeals for donations. Badaru urged citizens to manage kidnapping situations discreetly, as publicizing and fundraising through the media only worsen the problem and should be discontinued for the greater good.

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