Ekiti traditional rulers seek tougher anti-kidnap laws

Traditional rulers in Ekiti State have called for a review of Nigeria’s kidnapping laws to impose stricter penalties on those involved in or supporting the crime. The Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado, made the call on Saturday during a meeting between traditional rulers […]

Traditional rulers in Ekiti State have called for a review of Nigeria’s kidnapping laws to impose stricter penalties on those involved in or supporting the crime.

The Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado, made the call on Saturday during a meeting between traditional rulers and Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, during her one-day working visit to Ekiti State.

The monarchs also urged President Bola Tinubu to fast-track the creation of state police, arguing that it would strengthen security architecture and enable states to tackle criminal activities more effectively.

Oba Adu Alagbado expressed concern over the persistent cases of kidnapping and insecurity, stressing that those aiding and abetting kidnappers should face severe punishment.

“Kidnapping has persisted for too long. There should be a review of the laws dealing with these criminals and those supporting them,” he said.

Responding, Senator Oluremi Tinubu assured Nigerians of the President’s commitment to improving security through stronger internal measures and international partnerships.

She said the federal government was working closely with countries such as the United States to combat terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, adding that some of those involved in criminal activities were non-Nigerians.

“It is painful that we still face insecurity, but the President is working round the clock to address it. A lot is being done, even if some details cannot be disclosed publicly,” she said.

The First Lady also highlighted interventions under her Renewed Hope Initiative, including the construction of an ICT centre at Ekiti State University, N200 million in student scholarships and financial support for 2,000 traders in the state.