Deji Adeyanju Condemns Kogi Abductions, Blasts Government Over Rising Insecurity

Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has strongly condemned the recent mass abduction of members of a community in Kogi State, describing the incident as further evidence of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis and the government’s alleged failure to effectively confront terrorism and criminality.

In a statement made available to the media, Adeyanju expressed deep concern over the increasing frequency of kidnappings and terrorist attacks across the country, arguing that armed groups now appear to operate with alarming freedom across state boundaries without significant resistance from security agencies.

According to him, the continued wave of abductions raises serious questions about the capacity and commitment of government authorities to protect citizens and uphold the rule of law.

“I condemn the mass abductions of members of my community in Kogi State by terrorists,” Adeyanju stated. “It would appear President Tinubu has handed over the country to terrorists and criminal gangs and is only interested in second-term politics.”

The outspoken lawyer questioned how heavily armed criminal groups could continue to move from one state to another, carrying out attacks and abducting innocent citizens despite the presence of a constituted government and numerous security institutions.

He lamented that reports surrounding such incidents often end with news of ransom payments or the sudden release of victims, while those responsible are rarely apprehended and prosecuted.

“How can terrorists be moving from state to state and abducting citizens unchallenged in a country that has a constituted government? All we hear every time is payment of ransom or sudden release of victims of terrorism without the culprits being arrested and prosecuted,” he said.

Adeyanju further argued that the growing culture of negotiating with terrorist groups and kidnappers has emboldened criminal elements and contributed significantly to the spread of insecurity across Nigeria.

According to him, the involvement of both state and non-state actors in ransom negotiations and payments has created a dangerous incentive structure that encourages further abductions.

“The continued negotiation with terrorist groups across the country and payment of ransom by state and non-state actors is the reason terrorism is spreading in Nigeria like wildfire,” he added.

The activist called on the federal government and security agencies to adopt more decisive measures aimed at dismantling terrorist networks, arresting perpetrators, and restoring public confidence in the nation’s security architecture.

His remarks come amid growing public concern over the persistent threat posed by kidnappers, bandits, and terrorist groups in several parts of the country, particularly in rural communities where residents have repeatedly appealed for greater security presence and protection.

The latest abduction in Kogi State has once again reignited national conversations about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security strategy and the urgent need for stronger measures to safeguard lives and property.