Nigeria blames jihadist groups for wave of kidnappings but others accuse criminal gangs

The Nigerian government attributes the recent surge in kidnappings in the country's northwest and central regions to jihadist groups Boko Haram and Iswap. This claim is disputed by analysts who believe criminal gangs, known locally as "bandits," are responsible. The kidnappings, which have included mass abductions from schools and churches, are driven by ransom demands. Within the past two weeks, there have been three mass kidnappings in Kebbi, Kwara and Niger states. While the government denies paying ransoms, it acknowledges using various methods, including negotiation, to secure the release of abductees. Despite a ban on ransom payments, allegations persist that it is being ignored. The government has promised to rescue the remaining abductees but has not provided a timeline.

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