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Life-saving Tips To Follow When Held In Kidnappers Den Corpers Knock FG Over Unpaid N77k Allowance

In recent months, Nigeria has experienced a troubling increase in kidnappings for ransom, a crime that has not only disrupted lives but also instilled widespread fears. Between January and July 2024, at least 2,140 individuals were victims of kidnapping across Nigeria, according to a tally by the PUNCH Newspapers. Data from this period paints a sobering picture This disturbing trend reveals a landscape scarred by violence, where families are thrust into unimaginable despair, and communities plunged into a rising tide of insecurity. Over seven months, the scourge of kidnapping affected victims across 24 states, with Zamfara and Kaduna states emerging as the most beleaguered regions. May, in particular, saw a staggering rise in abductions, with over 500 people seized in a spree of violence that left five dead in 50 villages within Zamfara State. This grim episode, highlighted by House of Representatives member, Bello Shinkafi, cast a shadow over the entire nation. January began with a stark reminder of the perils faced by travellers, as 85 people were abducted along the treacherous Kaduna-Abuja highway near Katari. A series of alarming incidents were to follow this chilling start. In February, a terrorist gang struck on the very first day of the month, seizing 60 wedding guests in Katsina State. March witnessed a particularly devastating blow, with the abduction of 280 pupils and teachers from Government Secondary School and LEA Primary School in Kuriga, Kaduna State. It was a heart-wrenching event that symbolised the escalating brutality. In April, suspected bandits targeted Kasai village in Katsina, abducting 30 children, while May’s atrocities left an indelible mark on Zamfara State. The impact of these cruel events extended beyond the immediate anguish of the victims and their families, fueling a growing sense of insecurity throughout the country. Amid this chaos, the families of 62 victims—accounting for 2.89 per cent of those abducted—resorted to paying a staggering ransom of N389m to secure the release of their loved ones. These figures reflect not only the scale of the crisis but also the desperate measures taken by individuals caught in the web of violence. Understanding how to respond if you find yourself in such a harrowing situation is crucial for survival. This article offers practical advice and strategies to help navigate the perilous environment of a kidnapper’s den, based on expert recommendations and real-life experiences. Stay calm and assess the situation The initial reaction to being kidnapped is often panic, but staying calm is essential. A security expert, Adeyemi Adeyemi, noted that panic could cloud one’s judgment and impair one’s ability to think clearly. He said, “Take a deep breath and quickly assess your surroundings. Try to determine where you are. Note any distinguishing features or sounds that could give you clues about your location.” He also urged captives to observe their captors without drawing attention. He added, “Note their number, demeanour, and any identifying features such as accents or tattoos. Check your restraints or bindings. Are they secure? Is there any chance of escaping or loosening them?” Build rapport with your captors Adeyemi noted that if the opportunity arises, establishing a rapport with your captors could be beneficial. He stated that kidnappers were often more likely to negotiate or release captives they perceived as cooperative or non-threatening. Speaking on how to build a good rapport, he urged captives to be polite and only engage in conversations when invited while in the kidnappers’ den. He said, “Use respectful language and avoid confrontational behaviour. Showing courtesy can make captors more inclined to treat you better.” Also contributing, another security expert in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Jackson Lekan-Ojo, said if possible, engaging in small talk or asking questions could save a captive from being killed before help arrives. “Speaking to your captors with respect and not fear can humanise you and reduce the captors’ perception of you as merely a ransom. But don’t give them any information that suggests your family would lose a breadwinner if you were killed. They may increase the ransom or even kill you after getting that ransom. “If you can, find any common interests or experiences. This can create a sense of connection and make your captors more empathetic,” he said. Try to understand your captors’ motives Kidnappers are usually driven by financial gain, but understanding their motivations can help one to strategise. Adeyemi noted that most kidnappings are financially motivated, adding that understanding this can help one gauge the potential for negotiation or escape. Lekan-Ojo added that some kidnappings might be politically or personally motivated. “Knowing this can help you understand the gravity of the situation and the potential for negotiation,” he said. Keep communication open If you’re able to communicate with your family or authorities, it’s important to do so effectively, both experts noted. Adeyemi emphasised that if one’s captors allowed communication with family or authorities, following their instructions precisely would be a good way to win their trust. “Most kidnappers might have specific demands or restrictions. Don’t try to be smart by half. They have the upper hand. While you are communicating with family, make sure you are open about it,” he said. A Sociologist and Security Consultant to firms in the United States and Canada, Dr Sophie Adei, advised, “When communicating, provide accurate information about your location, condition, and any instructions from your captors. This will help authorities and your family to coordinate a response. “Maintain a calm demeanour during communication. Avoid expressing fear or desperation, as this can worsen the situation.” Focus on your safety Your primary goal in a kidnapper’s den should be to ensure your safety, not to get killed. “Do not resist or attempt to escape unless you’re certain it’s safe. Resistance can provoke violence and put your life at risk,” Adeyemi cautioned. He also urged captives to adhere to their captors’ instructions to avoid aggravating them. According to him, compliance might also help in gaining their trust and possibly improving your situation. Lekan-Ojo added that captives must pay attention to the routines and habits of their captors. “Know when they leave the room, when they return, when they sleep, and things like that. This can provide valuable information for any potential escape or rescue plan,” he said. Plan for possible scenarios Planning for various scenarios can increase your chances of survival. “If you identify an opportunity for escape, weigh the risks and benefits. Ensure you have a clear plan and understand the potential consequences of your actions,” Adei advised. If negotiation is an option, she noted that captives must prepare to present themselves as valuable, cooperative individuals. “Emphasise your willingness to cooperate and your lack of threat to the captors. In the event of a rescue operation, comply with instructions from rescuers and avoid sudden movements that could jeopardise the mission,” she added. Build psychological resilience Maintaining psychological resilience is crucial in a kidnapping situation. A psychologist at a private therapy centre in Osun State, Timothy Ajidahun, said captives must focus on maintaining a positive mindset even while with their captors. “Negative emotions can impair your judgment and morale. Engage in mental exercises to keep your mind active. This could include recalling personal memories, solving mental puzzles, or planning for the future,” he said. Post-kidnapping measures Once you’re free from the grip of the daredevils, there are important steps to take for your well-being and recovery. Ajidahun, the psychologist, said these include, “Getting a thorough medical examination to address any physical injuries or health issues resulting from the kidnapping. “Consider seeking counselling or therapy to deal with the psychological trauma. Professional support can help in processing the experience and aiding recovery.” He also advised that survivors must provide a detailed report of the incident to the authorities. “Your information could be valuable in apprehending the perpetrators and preventing future kidnappings,” he added.

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Exclusive: Prajakta Koli Reveals Why She Got FOMO While Shooting Mismatched 3 With Rohit Saraf

Mismatched Season 3 is finally here, and we’re still reeling from the cliffhanger of Season 2! Turns out, the fun behind the scenes was just as entertaining. Prajakta Koli spilled some hilarious moments from the shoot, revealing her “fear of missing out” on all the inside jokes. In an exclusive chat with MissMalini, Prajakta shared how Rohit Saraf, Taaruk, and Abhinav had already shot several scenes before she arrived on set. By the time she joined, they were cracking jokes referencing moments she missed, leaving her and others clueless and by the end she was just done with the jokes she didn’t understand which was super hilarious with the way she said this!. It sounds like the off-screen camaraderie was just as delightful as the on-screen drama! For more fun revelations, check out the embedded YouTube video.

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News_Naija

Barau Woos Sacked Kano SSG, Aggrieved NNPP Officials To APC I'm Being Victimised, My Suspension Meant To Silence Me- Natasha

In what has been widely described as a deft move aimed at wooing aggrieved chieftains of the New Nigeria Peoples Party to the All Progressives Congress, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin has confirmed that a strategic meeting with the former Secretary to the Kano State Government, Dr. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi and other NNPP stalwarts held in his Abuja house and at his instance. Arewa PUNCH reports that the meeting held amidst strong speculations of a possible decamptment to the APC by notable chieftains of the NNPP. Aside Bichi, the other NNPP big wigs invited to the meeting included the former Commissioner for Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Muhammad Diggol, alongside other stakeholders. Arewa PUNCH investigations revealed that among the major issues discussed were the issues affecting the unity, growth, and development of Kano State, plus the state of the nation. Matters arising from the meeting, which took place at Barau’s residence in Abuja, was further disclosed later in the evening of the day by his spokesperson, Ismail Mudasir, on his official Facebook page. Barau stated, “Today, I had a fruitful meeting with the former Secretary to the Kano State Government, Dr. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, the former Commissioner for Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Muhammad Diggol, and other stakeholders of our dear state at my residence in Abuja. “We had fruitful discussions with them on the development of our dear state and the country. The development of our state and the country is always at the top of our agenda. We will continue to collaborate with other stakeholders to advance our state and the nation. Let’s do it together to better the lots of our people.” Our correspondent reports further that the meeting held amid recent political tensions in Kano, particularly within the New Nigeria Peoples Party. Dr. Baffa Bichi and Muhammad Diggol were prominent figures in the Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration before their sudden removal. Bichi, a key ally of the NNPP leader Rabiu Kwankwaso, was sacked as Secretary to the State Government in December 2023, while Diggol was also relieved of his position. Their dismissals, which sparked controversy within the party, were widely seen as part of an internal power struggle between Kwankwaso’s loyalists and the state government. Bichi’s role in the alleged Abba Tsaya Da Kafarka (Abba, Hold Your Ground) movement has further fuelled political speculations in Kano. The movement, reportedly orchestrated by Bichi, was perceived as a campaign to challenge Governor Abba Yusuf’s leadership and assert greater influence over the state’s affairs. The alleged rift between Bichi and key figures in the NNPP heightened tensions, leading to claims that he was working against the governor’s administration. Barau’s engagement with the two former officials has already begun to further fuel speculations about potential political realignments in Kano ahead of the 2027 elections. The meeting signals a possible shift in alliances, as the opposition forces continue to strategise ahead of the next political cycle in the state.