A Religious Insights to the Increasing Cases of Kidnapping in Southern Part of Taraba

Abstract

Kidnapping ‌constitutes ‌a ‌criminal practice with far-reaching consequences for human society. Across Nigeria, it has long been treated as a major social evil that endangers lives, property and conditions required for peaceful coexistence. This study examines religious interpretations of the reasons associated with the increasing cases of kidnapping in Southern part of Taraba State, while also investigates the prevailing types of kidnapping and their effects. A quantitative research design was adopted, using a descriptive method alongside simple percentage-based analysis, and drawing on both primary and secondary materials. Primary data were obtained through structured questionnaires administered to respondents. Analytically, the study is situated within Anomie Theory, Religious Ethics Theory, and Social Disorganization Theory. The paper maintains that, from the standpoint of religious institutions, the increasing cases of kidnapping is tied to decline in moral and spiritual commitments, greediness and quest for materialism, unemployment and poverty, collusion involving security agents or influential individuals, and persistent ethnic tensions. Outcomes include huge ransom payments, loss of lives and properties, social instability and pressures that scare both local and foreign investors, and in turn deepen unemployment, poverty, and hunger. The study recommended among other things, that religious institutions should strengthen the culture of hard work and religious ethical teachings. These will aid in preventing the rising incidences of kidnapping in Taraba state and Nigeria at large.