‘Our loved ones still in captivity despite raising N155m ransom’  —  Kidnap victims’ families

Families of kidnapped residents in the Woro and Nuku communities of Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State, continue to demand government action after five months of uncertainty following a brutal attack. Despite raising over N155 million in ransom, the families say their loved ones remain in captivity, highlighting a growing crisis in the region. The families, speaking through local community leaders, expressed deep frustration and desperation, urging both federal and state authorities to intervene immediately. The attack occurred on February 3, 2026, when more than 100 armed assailants launched a violent assault on the two villages. Witnesses described the attackers as wearing military-style uniforms and riding motorcycles. The assault resulted in the deaths of over 260 individuals, destruction of more than 30 homes, and the abduction of 176 residents. This marked one of the deadliest and most destructive incidents in the region in recent years. Community leaders confirmed that the attack was retaliation against the refusal of villagers to allow an extremist religious group to establish a foothold in the area. Alhaji Abdul Ibrahim, a community representative, stated during an interview with the BBC Hausa Service that his family lost ten members and that 35 relatives remain missing. He revealed that the community collectively raised N155 million as a ransom attempt, which was delivered to the kidnappers but rejected outright. “They said the amount was insufficient,” he explained. “We returned the money and have not heard from our relatives since.” He emphasized that the families feel powerless and are appealing to the federal and state governments for assistance, as they believe no further action can be taken. Nigerian law prohibits the payment of ransoms to kidnappers, yet the community’s decision to raise funds reflects the desperate circumstances faced by the families. Some relatives noted that in a similar kidnapping case in Oyo State, security forces successfully intervened and freed the hostages, underscoring the disparity in how different regions are handled. This has led to feelings of abandonment among the affected families, who argue that their plight is being overlooked. Local leaders, including Alhaji Sulaiman Bukata, the Dan Sadaukin Kaiama, reported that residents recently organized a peaceful demonstration to bring attention to the situation. Many of the abducted individuals are women, children, and nursing mothers, according to the community. Bukata claimed that the kidnappers had issued threats against the captives, warning of forced marriages and potential harm if the government did not take immediate action. However, these claims could not be independently verified by the media outlet. Lawmaker Hon. Sa’idu Baba Ahmed, who represents the area in the Kwara State House of Assembly, echoed the families' concerns. He called on the federal government to increase its efforts to locate and rescue the captives, stating that the prolonged lack of progress has intensified the emotional and psychological toll on the affected families. His remarks reflect broader frustrations within the community, which feels neglected amid ongoing security challenges. The attack on Woro and Nuku highlights the escalating threat posed by armed groups in parts of North-Central Nigeria. These groups have been responsible for numerous mass killings, kidnappings for ransom, and attacks on rural areas, despite continuous security operations. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the persistent instability in the region, even as authorities strive to maintain order. As the families await resolution, their voices underscore the urgent need for coordinated and effective governmental response to such crises.