We Can’t Raise N1bn, Kaduna Community Cries Out As 37 Spend 45 Days In Captivity

Residents of the Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State have appealed to the federal and State governments to urgently secure the release of 37 worshippers abducted during Easter Sunday attacks on churches in the area.

The community said it could not meet the N1 billion ransom and 35 motorcycles demanded by the abductors, stressing that their only hope lies in government intervention and swift rescue operations.

LEADERSHIP recalls that armed bandits invaded three churches during Easter Sunday services, killing five worshippers before whisking away 37 others into captivity.

The victims, taken from St. Augustine Catholic Church, ECWA and Baptist Churches, have now spent about 45 days in captivity, leaving families and residents in fear, anguish and uncertainty over their fate.

President of the Kuturmi Development Association (KUDA), Dr Joseph David Ariko, said the abductors had remained in constant contact with the community, insisting on their demand without any reduction.

“They called virtually every two days, and they have not dropped their demand. It is still the N1 billion and 35 motorcycles,” he said.

David lamented that the community lacked the financial capacity to meet the demand, adding that residents had no option but to depend on the government for rescue.

“We want the government to go and rescue our people, that is all. We cannot afford it, honestly speaking”.

Another community member, Ephraim John, said the incident had left families traumatised, with relatives of the abducted worshippers enduring daily anxiety over their safety.

According to him, the prolonged captivity has deepened fear across the community and disrupted normal social and economic activities in the area.

He said many residents now live in constant apprehension, while affected families continue to struggle emotionally and financially in the aftermath of the attack.

The community leaders urged security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure the safe release of the victims and restore residents’ confidence.

They also called on well-meaning Nigerians, humanitarian organisations and other stakeholders to support affected families as the community continues to grapple with the impact of the Easter Sunday attack.