The year 2025 has begun on a troubling note for Nigeria as terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers unleash chaos across the country. In just the first week of January, over 78 people have been killed, and at least 80 others have been kidnapped. These unprovoked attacks have spread fear and instability in many states, leaving communities devastated.
The violence has been widespread, with Borno, Kebbi, Katsina, Imo, Benue, and other states reporting multiple incidents. On January 4, terrorists attacked a military base in Sabon Gari, Borno State, killing eight soldiers. On the same day, bandits struck Natsini village in Kebbi State, killing two people.
In Katsina State, over 30 people lost their lives in attacks that targeted residents traveling from a condolence visit. Similarly, unknown gunmen attacked communities in Imo State, leaving 21 people dead in Umuokanne and Orsu local government areas.
Benue State faced a grim situation as a farmer, Terzungwe Shaku, was kidnapped, held hostage for weeks, and later killed despite his family paying a ransom. His death is just one example of the violence gripping the state.
The rise in kidnappings has added to the insecurity. On January 5, over 40 women and children were abducted in Zamfara State. A few days later, two Catholic reverend sisters were kidnapped in Anambra State while returning from a meeting.
In Enugu State, gunmen ambushed buses on the Enugu-Ezike-Kogi road, abducting over 33 passengers, including three soldiers. These incidents highlight the alarming rise in kidnappings targeting both civilians and security personnel.
In Benue State, over 1,000 households have been displaced due to attacks. Governor Hyacinth Alia revealed that more than 500,000 people are now living in 26 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps across the state. Many of these people face inadequate shelter, limited access to clean water, and poor healthcare.
The crisis is not limited to the northern region. In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde raised concerns about the influx of bandits into the South-West, fleeing military operations in the North-West. Security agencies in the region have increased patrols and collaboration to address this growing threat.
Experts and community leaders are calling for urgent solutions to the security crisis. Elder Ben Okezie, a security expert, has emphasized the need for state police. He believes decentralizing law enforcement will allow local officers to respond more effectively to threats.
The attacks and kidnappings in the first days of 2025 highlight the urgent need for improved security measures to protect lives and restore stability across Nigeria.
