Background of the Survey
Adeniran Adeyemi, Nigeria’s Statistician-General, is being questioned by the DSS after the release of a ransom survey. The National Bureau of Statistics survey revealed Nigerians paid an estimated N2.23 trillion in ransom from May 2023 to April 2024. The report has sparked widespread debate about Nigeria’s growing insecurity and its financial impact.
Key Findings of the Survey
The survey revealed that 65% of households affected by kidnappings resorted to paying ransoms, with the average ransom amounting to N2.67 million per incident. These alarming figures underscore the severity of the security crisis in Nigeria, highlighting the financial burden on families and the country’s economy. The data paints a picture of widespread fear and the lengths to which individuals and communities are going to secure the release of loved ones from kidnappers.
The Aftermath: Website Hack
Following the publication of the report, the NBS website fell victim to a cyberattack. The NBS confirmed the breach via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, urging the public to disregard any unofficial communications coming from the compromised website. The homepage now displays a “Page Hacked” message, confirming the breach and raising questions about the security of government institutions.
Implications for National Security and Economy
The findings highlight the economic and social impact of Nigeria’s insecurity, with N2.23 trillion spent on ransom. This financial burden is a national security concern, affecting both individuals and the economy. Analysts warn that insecurity may worsen without stronger security measures and government action on kidnapping and its profitability.
Ongoing Investigations and DSS Actions
The DSS is questioning Adeyemi to investigate the survey’s accuracy, data origins, and overall authenticity. Authorities are working to verify the findings and ensure their credibility. Critics express concerns that the DSS may politicize the issue, undermining its integrity. There are fears that such actions could hinder transparency and accountability on important national matters.
What’s Next for the NBS and the Government?
The NBS works to recover from the cyberattack while the government faces pressure to address Nigeria’s kidnapping crisis. Citizens and analysts demand stronger policies to curb abductions and their economic impacts. The survey highlights the urgent need for a national dialogue on security, economics, and human safety. The Nigerian government must take decisive action to address both security challenges and broader socio-economic issues revealed by the survey.
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