Bandits Issue Deadly Ultimatum for 32 Abducted Kaduna Villagers
In a chilling development, armed bandits have threatened to execute 32 villagers abducted from Kutaho and Kugir communities in Aribi Ward, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The kidnappers have demanded a ransom of N30 million and four motorcycles for the release of the victims, warning that failure to meet these demands will result in the killings of the captives.
Violent Midnight Raid and Abduction Details
The victims, including a bride-to-be identified as Peace Williams, were kidnapped during a terrifying midnight raid on February 9, 2026. Armed bandits invaded the farming communities, firing gunshots indiscriminately and forcing residents out of their homes before taking dozens of people to an unknown location.
Community members revealed that the abducted individuals include women, children, and a heavily pregnant woman, highlighting the brutality of the attack. A resident, Elisha Musa, recounted the harrowing experience: "We were asleep that night when we started hearing gunshots everywhere. The bandits invaded the community and abducted many people to an unknown destination."
Community Struggles and Desperate Efforts
According to Musa, the kidnappers later contacted the community, issuing their ransom demands. "We have sold our properties and farm produce, trying to raise the money, but it is still not complete. They are threatening to start killing our people if we do not meet their demand," he added, underscoring the dire situation.
The youth leader of Kutaho community, Adams Solomon, reported that the attack has forced many residents to flee their homes due to fear of further violence. "After the bandits abducted our people, many residents fled the community out of fear of further attacks. We want our people rescued so those who ran away can return and continue living in peace," Solomon stated.
Infrastructure Challenges and Poverty
Another resident, David Amana, explained that the community faces significant obstacles in negotiating with the bandits, primarily due to widespread poverty and a lack of infrastructure. He noted that the area lacks telecommunications network coverage, making it nearly impossible to contact security agencies during emergencies.
"There is no network here to call security agencies or neighbouring communities for help. One of the victims even sold his car along with farm produce, but the money is still not enough," Amana said. "They keep insisting that we have money and have vowed to start killing the victims one after the other if we fail to meet their demand."
Impact on Farming and Economy
The chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Aribi Ward, Kenyi District, Kagarko LGA, Reverend John Maiaper, highlighted how recurring attacks have crippled farming activities in the communities. Maiaper, who is also the cleric in charge of the Baptist Church in Kutaho, disclosed that Kutaho was once renowned for ginger farming, but insecurity has drastically reduced agricultural output.
"Last year, our people were kidnapped and later released with support from well-meaning Nigerians. Now the bandits have returned. Our people depend on farming, especially ginger, but insecurity has made farming almost impossible," he lamented.
Similarly, Pastor Bello Danasabe of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) expressed concern over the worsening economic situation due to insecurity. "Kutaho used to be known for farming, but now insecurity has reduced our economic strength. The bandits' demand of N30 million and four motorcycles is something the community cannot afford," he said.
Eyewitness Accounts and Lack of Assistance
An eyewitness, Hafsatu Gabriel, provided a detailed account of the raid: "They were banging on doors and forcing people outside. The children started crying, and the bandits threatened to kill them. They tied some of the men and took them away."
Another resident, Bulus Philibus, reported that the community has received minimal assistance since the abduction. "Only the local government chairman and the deputy speaker brought some food items to support the people. Apart from that, no other help has come," he said. Philibus added that more than a month after the incident, the victims remain in captivity while their families continue to struggle to raise the demanded ransom.
Appeals for Urgent Intervention
The residents have made a heartfelt appeal to the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to intervene urgently to secure the safe release of the abducted villagers and restore peace to the affected communities. They also called for improved security presence and enhanced telecommunications infrastructure to enable prompt reporting of attacks and better coordination with authorities.
This tragic event underscores the ongoing security challenges in rural areas of Kaduna State, where banditry and kidnapping continue to threaten lives and livelihoods, leaving communities in a state of fear and desperation.
