High Rates of Out-of-School Children Linked to Rising Crime in Niger State

The Commissioner of Police in Niger State links the rising crime rate among youth to the high number of out-of-school children. In 2024, 713 arrests were made for serious crimes, including murder and armed robbery, with the police rescuing 37 kidnapping victims. Additionally, the report sheds light on the brutal murder of Hadiza Umaru by her brother, revealing deeper societal issues related to crime.

The Commissioner of Police in Niger State, Shawulu E. Danmaman, has identified the increasing rate of out-of-school children as a significant contributing factor to the rising crime rates, particularly among the youth in the region. In a report detailing police activities during 2024, he noted that law enforcement apprehended 713 suspects for various offenses, such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and car theft. The police successfully managed to rescue 37 victims of kidnapping and seized an array of firearms during their operations.

Furthermore, Commissioner Danmaman provided insights into the tragic case of Hadiza Umaru, who was allegedly murdered by her sibling, Habibu Umaru, with the assistance of an herbalist. The investigation revealed that the victim was poisoned under the pretext of curing her of supposed evil spirits, after which her remains were concealed in a shallow grave. Additional graves were subsequently discovered in the vicinity, prompting further investigation into the matter.

Addressing crime in Niger State has become increasingly urgent due to the alarming number of children not attending school. The absence of education has been linked to higher crime rates, particularly involving young individuals. The Commissioner of Police’s findings highlight a concerning trend between educational deprivation and criminal activity. The escalation of violent crimes, including murder and kidnapping, poses a significant challenge for law enforcement and public safety in Niger State. The recent horrific incident of Hadiza Umaru’s murder underscores the depth of the issues facing the community, revealing not only criminal acts but also cultural and societal challenges that contribute to such heinous events.

In conclusion, the increasing crime rate among youth in Niger State can be largely attributed to the high prevalence of out-of-school children. As reported by Commissioner Shawulu E. Danmaman, various serious crimes have been committed, exacerbating public safety concerns. The tragic case of Hadiza Umaru further illustrates the dire circumstances arising from educational neglect and societal issues. Addressing the education crisis is essential to mitigating these challenges and reducing crime rates within the region.

Original Source: dailytrust.com