The Socio-Religious Perspective of Kidnapping and Democratic Sustainability in Akwa Ibom State
Anthonia M. Essien, Ema Effiong Ben

Abstract
This study focuses on the socio-religious perspective of the problem of kidnapping as a threat to democratic governance in Akwa Ibom State. Kidnapping has emerged as a notorious form of violent crime in many societies of the world today because it is lucrative. In Akwa Ibom, this crime is rampant and the rationale behind it has gone beyond just economical into a political tool for witch-hunting perceived opponents. Given the fact that Akwa Ibom State is a predominantly Christian State, the researcher sought to investigate the socio-religious perception of the people about the threat of kidnapping to democratic sustainability. The study employed the use of a structured questionnaire developed and distributed to respondents drawn randomly across the state. We found that the people of Akwa Ibom are fully aware of the prevalence of kidnapping in the state, the crime of kidnapping in the state has been politicized and it has become a threat to democratic sustainability within the state. The significance of this study therefore is to expose the root of the threat of kidnapping to democratic sustainability in the State. The study recommends a comprehensive reorientation of the people on the evil of politicizing any crime in the state.

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