Worshippers abducted during an Easter Sunday church service in Ariko, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, remain in captivity more than 70 days after the incident.
The Kuturmi Unity Development Association raised the alarm on Tuesday, accusing federal and state authorities of inadequate response to the plight of affected communities. In a statement signed by its president J.D. Ariko and publicity secretary Manasseh Samuel, the group also noted that 11 residents abducted in Awon community over 50 days ago are yet to be rescued. The association lamented the displacement of over 100 communities, with thousands living in informal settlements without adequate government support. It called for intensified rescue efforts, humanitarian aid and the establishment of a Forward Operating Base at Maraba Barga Junction.
Persistent attacks in southern Kaduna have continued to raise serious concerns over the security situation in the region, where farming communities and religious groups remain vulnerable. The prolonged captivity of innocent worshippers has sparked outrage and renewed calls for decisive military action against bandit groups operating in the area. Families of the victims continue to live in anguish, pleading for government intervention to secure their loved ones’ release.
This situation exacerbates existing humanitarian challenges, including food shortages and lack of shelter for displaced persons. Security experts link the attacks to a complex mix of banditry, ethnic tensions, and weak intelligence networks. Stakeholders urge the government to prioritise dialogue with community leaders and enhance surveillance in vulnerable zones. The plight of these abducted worshippers serves as a painful reminder of the human cost of insecurity in Nigeria and the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to restore peace in Kaduna and neighbouring states.
