From Maryam Ahmadu-Suka, Kaduna
The bandits who abducted at least 166 worshippers in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna state have reportedly increased their ransom demand to N250 million and 20 motorcycles.
The village head of Kurmin Wali, Mr. Ishaku Dan’azumi, disclosed this on Tuesday while speaking about the plight of the community, days after armed men stormed three churches and carried out one of the largest mass abductions in recent memory.
It could be recalled that on January 18, 2026, gunmen invaded Kurmin Wali village during a religious gathering, abducting men, women and youths indiscriminately.
But the village head said the latest ransom demand is far beyond the reach of the largely rural community, already battered by repeated attacks and economic hardship.
“This is beyond what our people can afford. We are pleading with the government and security agencies to come to our aid and secure the release of our people,” the village head said.
He added, “We have long lived under the shadow of banditry and kidnapping, with our communities frequently targeted for mass abductions, killings and arson attacks that have displaced hundreds of families.
“Many villagers have been forced to flee their homes, abandoning farmlands and livelihoods as security challenges continue to escalate in rural parts of the state.”
He however urged the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and deploy stronger security measures to protect vulnerable rural communities.
