Gill Lever
The British government has strongly condemned the brutal killing of 38 kidnap victims in Zamfara State, despite the payment of a ₦50 million ransom. The victims were among 56 residents abducted from Banga village in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area. Armed bandits, led by notorious kingpin Dan Sadiya, abducted the villagers and demanded a ransom, which was paid, but only 18 hostages were released, while the remaining 38 were brutally killed.
UK Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Gill Lever, described the incident as an “unspeakable crime” that causes harm to mental and physical well-being and retards economic progress. Lever extended condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Zamfara State, calling for urgent action against such violence. The British government’s reaction highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for collective action to address the growing menace of kidnapping in Nigeria.
The UK and Nigeria have a collaborative security initiative, the State Expansion Programme for the Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell, aimed at strengthening anti-kidnapping operations across multiple states. This program is part of a broader Security and Defence Partnership between the two countries, focusing on mutual trust, respect, and support. The partnership underscores the commitment of both nations to tackle security challenges and promote stability in the region.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, has warned Nigerians against providing any form of support to bandits, emphasizing that those who do so will be treated as enemies of the state. Musa highlighted the importance of community cooperation in security operations and noted that the military has made significant progress in tackling insecurity in the north. The military’s efforts to address the security situation in Zamfara State and other parts of the country are ongoing, with a focus on protecting civilians and preventing further attacks.
The incident in Zamfara State has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with many calling for increased security measures to protect citizens. The government and security agencies must work together to address the root causes of insecurity and provide support to affected communities. The people of Zamfara State and Nigeria as a whole deserve to live in safety and security, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure their protection.
