Easter Abduction Victims Remain in Captivity as Journalists Urge Kaduna Government to Act

Easter Abduction Victims Remain in Captivity as Journalists Urge Kaduna Government to Act

June 13, 2026

The Southern Kaduna Journalists Forum (SKJF) has raised alarm over the continued captivity of worshippers abducted during Easter celebrations in Ariko Village, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, calling on Governor Uba Sani and security agencies to intensify efforts toward securing their freedom.

The appeal was made in a communiqué issued at the end of the forum’s congress held in Kaduna, where members deliberated on the prevailing security situation in Southern Kaduna and other issues affecting the region.

The communiqué, signed by the Forum’s Chairman, Ango Bally, expressed deep concern over the prolonged detention of the victims by their abductors several weeks after they were kidnapped during the Easter festivities.

According to the forum, the lingering insecurity across Southern Kaduna has continued to inflict hardship on residents, disrupt farming activities, hinder commercial operations, and threaten the livelihoods of thousands of families who depend on agriculture and local businesses for survival.

The journalists noted that many communities now live under constant fear of attacks, kidnappings, and other criminal activities, a situation they described as a major setback to socio-economic development in the region.

The congress also observed with concern reports indicating that some communities have resorted to negotiating directly with bandits in order to survive and secure temporary peace. According to the forum, such developments reflect the growing desperation among residents who feel abandoned in the face of persistent insecurity.

The communiqué, which was also signed by Bosan Yakusak and Israel Bulus, Chairman and Secretary of the Communiqué Drafting Committee respectively, stressed that the situation underscores the urgent need for stronger government intervention and a more coordinated security response.

The forum called on both state and federal authorities to establish additional security operational bases in vulnerable communities and ensure a sustained security presence in areas frequently targeted by criminal elements.

It further advocated stronger collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and recognized local vigilante groups to improve intelligence gathering and enhance community protection.

According to the forum, effective intelligence-sharing mechanisms and early-warning systems are critical to preventing attacks and ensuring swift responses whenever security threats emerge.

SKJF also urged law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts aimed at identifying, arresting, and prosecuting kidnappers and their sponsors, insisting that justice remains a vital component of the fight against insecurity.

“Justice is necessary to deter criminality and restore public confidence in state institutions,” the communiqué stated.

The forum emphasized that ending impunity would not only discourage criminal activities but also reassure citizens that government institutions remain committed to protecting lives and property.

The concerns raised by the journalists come amid growing anxiety over recent cases of abduction and violence in parts of northern Nigeria.

The congress specifically referenced the tragic death of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe, a former spokesman of the Defence Headquarters, who reportedly died while in the custody of bandits after being abducted alongside his wife in Jikamshi, Katsina State.

The incident has further heightened concerns about the worsening security challenges confronting communities across the region and the dangers faced by victims held in captivity.

Beyond security concerns, the forum stressed that restoring peace and stability to Southern Kaduna would have significant economic benefits. It noted that improved security would encourage farmers to return fully to their farmlands, stimulate commercial activities, attract investments, and create an enabling environment for development.

The journalists maintained that sustainable security improvements remain essential for rebuilding public trust and ensuring that residents can go about their daily activities without fear.

SKJF also reaffirmed its commitment to ethical and responsible journalism, urging media practitioners to prioritize accuracy, verification, and fact-checking when reporting security-related matters.

According to the forum, credible and professional reporting plays a crucial role in informing the public, promoting accountability, and preventing the spread of misinformation that could further inflame tensions.

As concerns continue to mount over the fate of those abducted during the Easter celebrations, the forum called on authorities not to relent in rescue efforts, insisting that every available resource should be deployed to secure the release of the victims and restore confidence among affected communities.

The journalists concluded that visible improvements in security and the safe return of those still in captivity would serve as a strong signal that government remains committed to safeguarding the lives and welfare of citizens across Southern Kaduna and beyond.