Kidnapping for ransom by criminal gangs, referred to as bandits, is prevalent in northern and central Nigeria, with many cases resolved through illegal cash payments. A recent incident in Plateau state is not linked to the ongoing Islamist insurgency in the northeast. The Nigerian federal government has acknowledged security issues but denied targeted persecution of Christians, while relations with the US have improved following discussions on these concerns. The government plans to deploy trained forest guards to secure remote areas used by criminal groups.
Want More Context? 🔎
Loading PerspectiveSplit analysis...
