Soludo raises alarm over rising kidnapping, names Simon Ekpa as key culprit

In a candid disclosure, Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has exposed the alarming growth of kidnapping as a lucrative enterprise in Nigeria, surpassing even drugs and oil in profitability.

Speaking on Saturday in Awka, the state capital, Soludo alleged that Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based self-acclaimed Biafra agitator, remains actively involved in kidnapping for ransom.

Governor Soludo highlighted the scale of the kidnapping crisis, recounting personal and historical experiences to emphasize its entrenched nature.

He recalled how, in 2009, his father fell victim to kidnappers, alongside notable figures like GU Okeke and Pokobros.

“Kidnapping is not new,” Soludo remarked. “Before I assumed office, eight local government areas in Anambra were under the control of gunmen who claimed to be Biafra freedom fighters. They killed policemen, seized guns, and destroyed police stations. But we took action, cleared them out, and reclaimed these areas.”

He pointed out that while the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has publicly distanced itself from such criminal activities, Simon Ekpa and his associates continue to exploit the chaos under the guise of liberation.

The governor expressed concern over a societal shift where wealth, irrespective of its source, is celebrated. “For every naira reported as ransom, five to six naira goes unreported,” Soludo revealed.

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“Kidnappers are now glorified, and idolatry has become the fastest-growing ‘religion’ in the South-East, offering criminals a cloak of legitimacy. Nothing is sacred to them anymore.”

Dr. Chukwuma Nwankwo, a criminologist, emphasized the economic and social dimensions of the crisis. “Kidnapping thrives in environments where poverty, weak governance, and societal acceptance of ill-gotten wealth intersect,” he explained. “Governments must prioritize intelligence-driven security strategies and socioeconomic interventions to address root causes.”

Security analyst Adaobi Okeke noted, “Simon Ekpa’s alleged involvement highlights the need for international cooperation. As a Finland-based individual, bringing him to justice requires a robust diplomatic effort, which underscores the global nature of crime today.”

Governor Soludo urged the public to reject the glorification of wealth obtained through criminal means and to support ongoing efforts to combat insecurity in the region.

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“As a society, we must reclaim our values and refuse to celebrate individuals who thrive on the misery of others,” Soludo said.

The governor’s revelations shed light on the deep-seated challenges in tackling kidnapping, signaling a call to action for regional and international stakeholders to address the crisis.