Effects of Kidnapping on Interstate Commercial Transportation Service, in North Central, Nigeria

In recent times, highway kidnapping has continued to disrupt the movement of people in the North-Central zone of Nigeria. These incessant kidnapping activities on the highways have further intensified the threats faced by commercial motorists. Against this backdrop, this study examines the effects of kidnapping on interstate commercial transportation services in North-Central Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Multi-stage sampling technique was utilized in selecting respondents. A sample size of 384 was determined using Cochran’s formula. Out of the 384 questionnaires administered, 354 were retrieved and found valid for data analysis. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the aid of SPSS Version 21. Queer Ladder Theory was adopted as the theoretical framework. The core idea of the theory is that it explains the “instrumental essence of organized crime as a desperate means of economic empowerment and social climbing.” Findings from the study revealed that kidnapping on North-Central highways is caused by myriad factors, with poor security structures and unemployment/poverty ranking highest among them. The study further revealed that highway kidnapping exposes road users to risks such as fear, panic, and financial loss as a result of ransom payments. It was also established that kidnapping leads to low patronage and a reduction in the income level of transport companies. The study concludes that kidnapping has greatly affected interstate transportation services, as passengers, out of intense fear of kidnapping, often resort to alternative means of transportation, resulting in low patronage. The study recommends that government should collaborate with communities and strengthen security on highways by installing modern surveillance devices such as CCTV cameras. There is also an urgent need to tackle poverty and address youth unemployment through the creation of employment opportunities for the teeming youth population.

Kidnapping, Interstate Transportation, Commercial Transportation Services

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