Suspected bandits who attacked Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Easter Sunday, have demanded a ransom of N1 billion for the release of kidnapped residents.
The attack which occurred during the Easter celebrations, reportedly left several people dead, while many others were abducted, throwing the rural community into mourning and fear.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Concerned Ariko Youths, signed by Chairman Linus Audu and Secretary Kefas Likita, the group revealed that the victims include some of the most vulnerable members of the community.
“In the course of what should have been a solemn period of worship and reflection, armed bandits invaded our community, resulting in the loss of innocent lives and the abduction of several residents,” the statement read.
According to the group, those kidnapped include two elderly blind men, women whose husbands were killed during the ആക്രമ, young children, critically ill women, and entire families.
“Among those abducted are two elderly blind men, two women whose husbands were killed alongside their children, several young children, two critically ill women, and entire families,” the group stated.
The youths described the situation as a growing humanitarian crisis, noting that families have been left traumatised and uncertain about the fate of their loved ones.
They also decried the ransom demand, describing it as excessive and beyond the reach of the affected community.
“The demand of one billion naira is outrageous and far beyond the capacity of this rural community. It is neither reasonable nor humane to expect grieving families to meet such a demand,” the statement added.
The group called on authorities in Kachia Local Government to work closely with security agencies to secure the immediate release of the victims, while also urging the Kaduna State government to deploy stronger security measures in the area.
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They further appealed to the federal government to intensify efforts to combat banditry and restore safety across affected regions.
“We urge swift, transparent, and effective action to rescue the abducted victims unconditionally and bring the perpetrators to justice. Continued delay will only deepen the suffering of affected families,” the group said.
The attack has heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, especially in rural communities frequently targeted by bandits.
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