Insecurity and fifth columnists: Highly placed individuals fund kidnap for survival, politics – Rear Admiral Olisemelogor
By Evelyn Usman
June 12 remains a significant date in Nigeria’s history, symbolizing the nation’s democratic struggle and the collective desire for freedom, justice, accountability, and inclusive governance. It is a day set aside to celebrate the victory of the people’s will and the endurance of democratic values.
However, as Nigerians mark another Democracy Day, the celebration is increasingly being overshadowed by the persistent security challenges confronting the nation.
From insurgency in the North-East to bandit attacks in the North-West and widespread kidnappings in the North-Central region, insecurity continues to threaten lives and undermine national stability.
Even more alarming is the gradual spread of kidnapping and banditry into parts of Southern Nigeria, especially the South-West, fueling concerns that criminal groups are expanding their operations beyond their traditional bases.
One recent example was the discovery of a suspected criminal hideout within a forest in Ogun State. Security operatives raided the area and arrested several suspects believed to be involved in kidnapping and other violent crimes.
As these security threats continue to evolve and spread, millions of Nigerians live daily under fear and uncertainty. For many communities, the democratic promises of safety, dignity, and freedom of movement remain aspirations rather than realities.
This situation raises an important question: How meaningful is democracy when citizens cannot safely travel on highways, cultivate their farms, send their children to school, or sleep peacefully in their homes?
Security Agencies Sustain Operations
Despite the daunting challenges, the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police, and other security agencies have continued to intensify efforts to combat criminality and terrorism across the country.
Recent successes include the rescue of 427 residents from Ngoshe and Dille communities in Borno State by troops of Operation HADIN KAI. Security forces have also recorded achievements in rescuing kidnapped victims, dismantling terrorist camps, recovering weapons, and neutralizing criminal elements.
According to the Defence Headquarters, troops eliminated 317 terrorists and criminal suspects in May, arrested 314 individuals, and rescued 221 kidnapped victims.
These accomplishments reflect the sacrifices and dedication of security personnel operating under difficult and dangerous conditions. They also demonstrate the commitment of the nation’s security forces to restoring peace and stability despite the scale of the challenges.
Growing Concern Over Insecurity
The worsening security situation has drawn concern from experts, including retired naval officer Rear Admiral Dickson Olisemelogor, who described the trend as troubling and potentially dangerous to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
He warned that the continued prevalence of kidnapping could gradually erode public confidence in government institutions and law enforcement agencies.
According to him, kidnapping has become increasingly attractive due to its profitability and its use as a tool for intimidation and financial gain.
“The situation is deeply disturbing and could lead to anarchy if not urgently addressed. Kidnapping has become a lucrative enterprise, attracting individuals who view it as a quick source of income. Some influential persons are allegedly using it to generate funds, support political activities, and facilitate illegal mining operations,” he said.
Olisemelogor further noted that some educated youths are abandoning cybercrime for kidnapping because of the higher financial rewards.
While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies, he suggested that limitations in resources and political factors may be affecting their effectiveness.
He called for a comprehensive national response involving strict enforcement of anti-terrorism and anti-kidnapping laws, as well as intensive public awareness campaigns by government agencies, the media, community leaders, and religious institutions.
He also urged telecommunications providers to strengthen collaboration with security agencies by assisting in tracking kidnapping activities and supporting investigations.
The Role of Fifth Columnists
Security analysts have identified another major threat beyond armed criminals operating in forests and remote locations—the activities of collaborators embedded within society.
Often referred to as fifth columnists, these individuals allegedly support criminal groups through intelligence leaks, logistics assistance, and the provision of sensitive information.
Unlike armed insurgents, these collaborators often operate unnoticed within communities, institutions, and even organizations entrusted with confidential information.
In modern security operations, information can be as powerful and damaging as weapons.
Recent reports of intelligence leaks have renewed concerns about the activities of such collaborators.
Security sources revealed that intelligence had been gathered regarding planned terrorist attacks on schools in Kogi, Edo, Ondo, and Nasarawa states, including potential mass abductions of students.
Although the intelligence was reportedly shared with relevant agencies for preventive action, details allegedly found their way into the public domain before operational measures could be fully implemented.
Security experts warn that such leaks can seriously compromise counter-terrorism efforts. Once criminals realize their plans have been exposed, they can alter strategies, relocate operatives, or postpone attacks, thereby neutralizing the advantage of surprise.
Past incidents have similarly been cited where intelligence leaks allegedly allowed insurgents to evade security operations and frustrate military efforts.
One frequently referenced case dates back to the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, when reports suggested that a foreign-assisted operation against Boko Haram may have been compromised by the leakage of sensitive information before execution.
Disturbing Developments
Security sources have also expressed concern over allegations that some collaborators provide kidnappers and insurgents with personal information about intended targets, including phone numbers, travel patterns, and other sensitive details.
Such information, analysts say, enables criminals to monitor and track victims before carrying out attacks.
A case often mentioned within security circles is the abduction of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar, and his wife in Katsina State.
Sources familiar with the matter believe the retired officer may have been monitored over a considerable distance before the incident occurred, raising concerns about possible insider assistance.
At the time the report was compiled, the couple remained in captivity, with kidnappers reportedly demanding the release of detained associates and the return of seized livestock as part of negotiations.
The incident has reinforced fears that criminal groups may be receiving support from individuals operating within communities and institutions.
Beyond intelligence leaks, security agencies have over the years arrested persons accused of supplying food, fuel, medicines, and other logistical support to insurgents. In some cases, communities have been accused of alerting terrorists to troop movements, while isolated reports of compromised security personnel have also surfaced.
The Cost of Betrayal
Although the military maintains that such cases represent only a small fraction of those serving the country, officials acknowledge that the consequences can be devastating.
A senior Army officer, speaking anonymously, warned that even a single breach of trust can jeopardize major operations and cost lives.
“A single leak can expose an operation. One informant can destroy months of planning, while one act of betrayal can lead to unnecessary casualties. We have lost personnel in situations that could have been avoided if intelligence had remained secure,” he said.
He emphasized that addressing insecurity requires more than military action and called for a collective national effort involving citizens, communities, and institutions.
Similarly, a senior Air Force officer noted that internal sabotage continues to undermine security operations across various theatres of conflict.
“The threat is not limited to direct attacks from adversaries. Internal compromises of intelligence and operational plans pose significant dangers to mission success and personnel safety,” he explained.
According to him, the effects of such breaches are often underestimated, affecting logistics, operational timing, and the overall effectiveness of security missions.
He added that some collaborators are believed to be among influential individuals and political actors, making the challenge even more complex.
Collective Responsibility
Ultimately, Nigeria’s security challenges require a united national response that extends beyond military operations. While security agencies continue to record significant achievements, sustainable peace can only be achieved when citizens, institutions, and leaders work together to deny criminals support, safeguard sensitive information, and strengthen public trust.
Only through such collective commitment can democracy fully deliver the security, dignity, and freedom that Nigerians deserve.