Bandits Hold 13 Kaduna Abductees Despite N40m Payment, Community Leader Reveals

In Kaduna State, bandits have refused to release 13 abducted villagers from Gidan Waya community despite a N40 million ransom payment. The Chairman of Gidan Waya Elder Forum, Mallam Rabo Sambo, disclosed this during a press conference on Monday.

The abduction occurred during a deadly night raid on November 11, 2025, resulting in casualties and injuries among the residents. The bandits, who wore masks to conceal their identities, demanded the ransom in January 2026.

The community, already facing food shortages, sold their main food reserves to raise the ransom, leaving them in a dire situation. Despite the payment, the abductees have not been released, prompting Sambo to seek government assistance.

Governor Uba Sani and the Division Police Office have been urged to intervene urgently to secure the release of the captives and provide food aid to the affected community members.