Kidnapping has become a rampant and disturbing issue in Nigeria, especially along major transportation routes, creating lasting physical, psychological, and emotional consequences for victims. This study examines the experiences of kidnapping and victimization among commuters on the Ado-Akure Federal Road, exploring the dynamics of the crime, the tactics employed by kidnappers, and the profound impact on victims. Employing a qualitative approach, the study gathers primary data through in-depth interviews with victims and key informants to understand the lived experiences of those affected. The findings reveal the brutal methods used by kidnappers, including violent attacks, emotional manipulation, and the creation of an atmosphere of constant fear. Victims shared their traumatic experiences, recounting incidents of physical abuse, witnessing executions, and enduring sexual violence, with particular emphasis on the experiences of female commuters. Additionally, the study highlights the deep psychological toll on victims, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep disturbances, and a general mistrust of others. The research underscores the critical need for effective interventions to address the increasing prevalence of kidnapping and victimization. Policy recommendations include strengthening security along critical transportation routes, improving legal responses to kidnapping, and establishing comprehensive victim support systems, including psychological counseling. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on the rising insecurity in Nigeria, particularly focusing on the experiences of victims of kidnapping, and advocates for a more victim-centered approach to policy formulation and implementation in order to enhance public safety and national security.
Keywords: Insecurity, Victimization, commuters, kidnapping, psychological trauma, public safety, ransom
