Bandits who abducted 177 Christian worshippers in Kajuru local government area of Kaduna State have demanded a ransom of ₦250 million and 20 motorcycles to secure the release of the victims, local authorities have confirmed.
The Kurmin-Wali Village Head, Ishaku Ɗan’azumi, disclosed the demand while speaking on the ongoing efforts to free the captives. He said the abductors made contact with community representatives after the coordinated attacks on three churches in the area.
Recall that the worshippers were kidnapped on January 18 when armed men stormed church premises in separate but near-simultaneous raids, firing sporadically and forcing congregants into the surrounding forests. The incident triggered panic across nearby communities and prompted an immediate security response.
According to Ɗan’azumi, while some of the abducted worshippers—mainly women, children and the elderly—have since been released due to health concerns, more than 100 victims remain in captivity under harsh conditions. “The bandits have demanded ₦250 million and 20 motorcycles. They are still holding over 100 of our people”, the village head said, adding that families of the victims are distressed and unable to meet such demands.
Security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, police and other operatives, have intensified efforts to secure the safe release of the captives. A security source said search-and-rescue operations are ongoing, with troops combing identified hideouts and maintaining surveillance in the area.
Kaduna State authorities have reiterated their stance against the payment of ransom, urging residents to cooperate with security agencies and provide credible information that could aid the operation. Community leaders have also appealed to the federal and state governments to scale up security presence in Kajuru and other vulnerable parts of southern Kaduna.
