Nigeria: Suspected criminals kidnap 29 residents in Yewuti area, Federal Capital Territory, March 25

Event

Unidentified assailants kidnapped at least 29 residents in the Yewuti area, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), at around 01:00 on April 25. An unspecified number of people were also injured, while two abductees quickly escaped as they were moved into forest areas. Authorities have yet to confirm the incident. Security forces have reportedly been deployed in the area. There have been no reported ransom demands at the time of writing. The incident was likely financially motivated and carried out by criminals.

In the coming hours and days, authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence near the incident site to apprehend the attackers and rescue the abductees. Localized travel disruptions are likely; security forces may establish roadblocks, checkpoints, and search vehicles. Armed clashes involving kidnappers and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

There is a high threat of kidnapping across all states in Nigeria, including within the FCT. Routes to and from Abuja, the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria expressway (A2) notably, also remain vulnerable to violent incidents, including lethal attacks and kidnapping generally carried out by armed bandits.

The threat is particularly acute in the northwest, where officials have failed to curtail attacks and kidnappings despite various security measures implemented, such as increased operations, curfews, and business restrictions. Most kidnappings in Nigeria are financially motivated and conducted by criminal groups of varying levels of sophistication. Militant and/or extremist groups also conduct kidnappings that may be ideologically or financially motivated.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of vigilance in Nigeria due to the threat of violence and kidnapping. Heed all official directives. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. If operating in the area in the long term, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.