The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning against the emerging trend of using social media for crowdfunding ransom money for kidnap victims, deeming it illegal and a punishable offence.

The Force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, emphasized the criminal nature of paying ransom in Nigeria, citing legal provisions.

During a live programme on Channel TV, Adejobi expressed concern over the negative impact such crowdfunding initiatives have on police morale and the overall security system.

He highlighted the fear instilled by kidnappers in the families of victims, discouraging them from involving law enforcement.

Adejobi revealed a recent incident where an individual initiated crowdfunding on social media, criticizing the practice as detrimental to law enforcement efforts.

He asserted, “Crowdfunding is not allowed. How can you come on social media and be telling people to gather money to go and rescue victims? It kills our morale; it kills the system. We should not encourage that.”

The Force spokesman underlined that encouraging such practices only serves to make kidnapping a lucrative business in Nigeria.

He urged the public to resist paying ransom through crowdfunding and emphasized the need for collaboration with security operatives to tackle the issue effectively.

The warning comes in response to the increasing instances of Nigerians resorting to social media platforms to seek financial assistance for the release of kidnapped relatives.

Adejobi stressed that supporting such crowdfunding initiatives only perpetuates the cycle of kidnapping and criminality.