A Research Proposal on Patterns, Causes, and Consequences of Kidnapping for Ransom in Southern Taraba
Chapter One
Objective of the Study
The main objective of this study is to explore the patterns, causes, and consequences of kidnapping for ransom in Southern Taraba. Specifically, the study aims to:
- Identify the patterns of kidnapping for ransom in Southern Taraba, including the frequency, methods, and geographical hotspots.
- Examine the socio-economic and political factors contributing to the rise of kidnapping in the region.
- Assess the consequences of kidnapping on the socio-economic development of Southern Taraba.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of current security measures and suggest improvements to curb kidnapping in the region.
Chapter Two
Literature Review
Kidnapping for Ransom: Definition and Overview
Kidnapping for ransom is defined as the unlawful abduction of individuals with the primary intent of obtaining monetary compensation or other valuable goods in exchange for their release. This form of kidnapping has evolved into a complex criminal enterprise involving sophisticated planning and execution by organized criminal groups (Ene, 2018). Typically, kidnappers target individuals perceived to have the financial means to pay substantial ransoms, making the crime both financially motivated and opportunistic.
Historically, kidnapping in Nigeria was predominantly confined to the Niger Delta region, where it initially emerged as a tactic employed by militant groups to draw attention to their political and economic grievances, particularly those related to oil exploitation and environmental degradation (Akpan, 2020). Over time, the modus operandi of kidnapping expanded beyond political motives to include economic motivations, driven by the lucrative nature of ransom payments. This shift has seen the crime spread to other parts of the country, including Southern Taraba, where various socio-economic factors have contributed to its proliferation.
Kidnapping in Nigeria can be broadly categorized into political, economic, and opportunistic types. Political kidnapping is often carried out by insurgent or militant groups seeking to exert pressure on the government or to advance a specific political agenda (Dode, 2022). In contrast, economic kidnapping is primarily driven by the desire for financial gain, targeting individuals such as businesspeople, professionals, and wealthy individuals who can afford to pay substantial ransoms. Opportunistic kidnapping, meanwhile, occurs when individuals or groups seize the chance to abduct a victim with little prior planning, usually due to a perceived opportunity for quick financial reward (Ibrahim & Ahmad, 2020). This classification highlights the varying motivations behind kidnapping incidents and underscores the complexity of addressing the issue comprehensively.
Socio-Economic Drivers of Kidnapping
Poverty and unemployment are significant catalysts for the rise in kidnapping for ransom in Nigeria. Individuals facing economic hardship are often driven to criminal activities as a means of survival. In regions like Southern Taraba, where poverty levels are high, kidnapping becomes an attractive option for those seeking quick financial gains. The lack of employment opportunities exacerbates this situation, leading many to resort to kidnapping as a way to meet their financial needs (Dodo, 2020).
Economic disparity also plays a crucial role in the prevalence of kidnapping. The stark contrast between the wealthy and the poor creates a fertile ground for criminal activities. Kidnappers often target wealthy individuals, knowing they are likely to pay large sums for the safe return of their loved ones. This disparity not only fuels resentment but also provides a clear incentive for kidnappers, who view the affluent as easy targets for extortion (Fajana, 2019).
The lack of educational opportunities further contributes to the socio-economic drivers of kidnapping. In many parts of Southern Taraba, access to quality education is limited, resulting in a population that is less equipped to pursue legitimate and sustainable livelihoods. This educational deficiency leaves many young people vulnerable to recruitment by criminal gangs and increases the likelihood of them engaging in kidnapping activities. Without education, the prospects for gainful employment diminish, pushing more individuals towards illegal means of income generation (Ibrahim & Ahmad, 2020).
Chapter Three
Methodology
Research Design
In this study on the impact of kidnapping for ransom in Southern Taraba, a survey research design will be employed. This design will be chosen for its effectiveness in collecting quantitative data that will provide a comprehensive overview of the prevalence, patterns, and impacts of kidnapping within the region. The survey research design will facilitate the systematic collection of data from a broad range of respondents, which will be crucial for understanding the scope of the problem and drawing generalizable conclusions (Saunders, Lewis, & Thornhill, 2019).
The choice of a survey research design will be justified by its ability to capture extensive information regarding the socio-economic impacts and patterns of kidnapping. Surveys are well-suited for gathering data on respondents’ experiences, perceptions, and attitudes, making them ideal for investigating complex social issues like crime and their effects on communities (Bell, Bryman, & Harley, 2019). By utilizing structured questionnaires, this design will allow for the collection of standardized responses, enhancing the reliability and validity of the findings (Frankfort-Nachmias, Nachmias, & DeWaard, 2021).
Population of the Study
The target population for this study will comprise individuals residing in Southern Taraba, including local business owners, community leaders, and residents directly or indirectly affected by kidnapping for ransom. A total of 1,200 individuals will be identified as the study’s population, representing various demographic groups to ensure a representative sample of the region’s population. This target population will be chosen based on its relevance in providing diverse perspectives on the issue and ensuring that the study’s findings reflect the broader community’s experiences (Creswell & Creswell, 2018).
Selecting this target population will be based on the need to gather insights from individuals with direct or indirect involvement with the issue of kidnapping. Including a variety of demographic groups will ensure that the findings are comprehensive and consider multiple facets of the problem (Gray, 2018).
References
- Abraham, U. E. (2020). The social problem of kidnapping and its implication on the socioeconomic development: A case study of Uyo Metropolis. (Master’s thesis, University of Uyo, Nigeria).
- Akpan, N. S. (2020). Kidnapping in Nigeria’s Niger Delta: An exploratory study. Journal of Social Sciences, 24(1), 33-42. https://doi.org/10.1080/09718923.2010.11892834
- Asuquo, M. E. (2009). The upsurge of kidnapping and its influence on public order in Akwa Ibom State. Unpublished term paper, Department of Sociology/Anthropology, University of Uyo, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State-Nigeria, 6(3), 140.
- Dode, R. O. (2022). The political economy of the resource curse and the Niger Delta crisis in Nigeria: Matters arising. European Journal of Sustainable Development, 1(2), 235-248.
- Dodo, A. W. (2020). The causes and remedies of kidnapping in Nigeria. The Nigerian Academic Forum, 19(1), 1-4.
- Durkheim, E. (2023). Emile Durkheim on institutional analysis. New York: University of Chicago Press.
- Ene, W. R. (2018). Kidnapping and the Nigerian society: A sociological insight. International Journal of Development and Management Review, 13(1), 161-172. https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9781107415324.004
