Nigeria has been thrown into deep shock and concern following the circulation of a distressing video showing a young man identified as Mogaji Adebanjo pleading for his life after being abducted by armed criminals. The victim, who works with Vine Crest College, was reportedly travelling from Iperu to Abuja when kidnappers intercepted his vehicle along Kabba road. The incident has once again brought national attention to the rising wave of kidnappings across the country.
In the emotional video recorded by the abductors, Adebanjo is seen visibly shaken as he explains that the kidnappers are demanding one hundred million naira for his release. His voice trembles as he appeals to Nigerians for urgent assistance, stressing that he has a pregnant wife, a four year old son and an elderly father who all depend on him. His plea I do not want to die has resonated deeply with many citizens, reigniting public frustration over the persistent insecurity in major travel corridors.
Security experts have repeatedly highlighted the Kabba axis as one of the most dangerous routes for travellers due to the presence of heavily armed gangs who operate freely in forested areas. Over the past year, numerous cases of kidnapping, robbery and violent attacks have been reported along this corridor. Many commuters now avoid travelling at certain hours, and transport companies have reportedly adjusted schedules to reduce exposure.
Public outrage over the incident intensified after several civil society groups described the video as a reflection of the deteriorating security situation. Citizens argue that the frequency of kidnappings has reached an alarming level and that the government must take decisive action. According to some observers, kidnapping gangs now target not only high profile individuals but also teachers, students, traders and ordinary travellers who have no security protection.
Officials have not yet released a formal statement on the abduction, but local vigilantes and security operatives in the area have reportedly launched search efforts. However, many Nigerians remain sceptical due to the low rate of rescue successes and the long delays often associated with kidnapping investigations. Several families of previous victims have claimed they had to pay ransom privately because they received no meaningful support from authorities.
In the midst of public anxiety, the video has also sparked debates about ransom payments. While Nigerian security agencies consistently warn against paying ransom, many families argue that they have no choice when loved ones are in danger. Analysts note that ransom payments fuel the criminal economy surrounding kidnapping, allowing gangs to expand operations, acquire more weapons and recruit more members.
The situation also shines a spotlight on the emotional trauma endured by families of abducted persons. Adebanjo pregnant wife is said to be devastated, and relatives have been making frantic calls seeking help from well meaning Nigerians and public figures. Several online campaigns have already begun, urging citizens to support efforts toward his release.
Meanwhile, another security development has drawn attention in Sokoto State. The Nigerian Army appears to be intensifying operations against notorious bandit leaders, including Bello Turji who has long been associated with violent attacks and mass killings in the region. Reports indicate that troops of the eight Division of the Nigerian Army have killed one of Turji key allies, Kachalla Kallamu, in a major offensive operation in Sabon Birni Local Government Area.
Military sources say the operation was well coordinated and targeted several bandit hideouts. Kachalla Kallamu was reportedly a central figure in multiple attacks across communities, responsible for countless abductions and killings. His death, analysts say, could weaken Turji network, which has dominated Sokoto and neighbouring states for years.
Residents in Sabon Birni have welcomed the operation, expressing hope that increased military pressure will lead to improved safety. Many communities in the area have suffered from displacement, loss of livelihood and destruction of property due to repeated bandit raids. While the military has recorded several successes in recent months, citizens say more sustained action is needed to dismantle the remaining networks.
Security experts observe that the situation in Sokoto requires long term strategy. Bandit gangs often regroup after losing key leaders, and the presence of dense forests offers them cover. Without coordinated intelligence gathering, enhanced surveillance and improved local cooperation, gains may be temporary.
The Daily Trust article providing further details on the offensive highlights that the operation signifies growing pressure on Turji, who has evaded capture for years. According to the report, the army is now closing in on remaining commanders in the network. Many Nigerians have praised the military for recent progress, although they insist that restoring normalcy will require more than isolated victories.
Both incidents the kidnapping of the Vine Crest teacher and the military offensive in Sokoto highlight the complex security challenges facing Nigeria. While kidnapping is rampant in the Middle Belt and southern highways, banditry remains a dominant threat in the North West, particularly in Zamfara, Sokoto and Kaduna. These crises have affected agriculture, trade, education and economic activities, worsening the hardship many Nigerians already face.
The government continues to assure citizens that reforms are underway to strengthen policing, intelligence and border control. However, public confidence remains low. Many argue that without visible results, consistent response times and a proactive approach, insecurity will continue to derail national progress. Some analysts also call for restructuring community policing, better equipment for security agencies and improved collaboration between federal and state governments.
As the nation awaits updates on Adebanjo case, citizens on social media have been sharing the video and tagging influential individuals in an attempt to raise awareness. Many are pleading with security agencies to act urgently to save his life. The video has become a symbol of the human cost of Nigeria insecurity crisis, reminding the public that behind every headline is a family in turmoil.
In the coming days, attention will remain on the search efforts in Kabba and the ongoing military operations in Sokoto. Nigerians demand not only the rescue of victims but also systemic reforms that address the roots of violent crime. For many, the hope is that the government will treat security as the highest national priority and restore a sense of safety that has been lost in many communities.
