Residents of Kutaho and Kugir communities in Aribi Ward, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State have raised alarm over the continued captivity of 32 villagers abducted by bandits, more than a month after the attack. The victims were reportedly kidnapped during a midnight raid on February 9, 2026, when armed men stormed the farming communities, firing gunshots and forcing residents out of their homes before taking dozens to an unknown destination. Community members say the abducted include women, children, and a heavily pregnant woman.
A resident, Elisha Musa, recounted the traumatic night: “We were asleep when we started hearing gunshots everywhere. The bandits invaded the community and abducted many people.” According to him, the kidnappers later contacted the community, demanding ₦30 million and four motorcycles as ransom, while threatening to begin killing victims if their demands are not met. Residents say they have sold personal belongings and farm produce in desperate attempts to meet the demand, but the amount remains far from complete.
Another resident, David Amana, highlighted the challenges: Lack of telecommunications network makes it difficult to contact security agencies
Widespread poverty limits the community’s ability to raise funds
Victims’ families are under increasing pressure due to threats from kidnappers “One of the victims even sold his car, but the money is still not enough,” he said.
The youth leader of Kutaho, Adams Solomon, said the attack has forced many residents to flee their homes: “We want our people rescued so those who ran away can return and live in peace,” he appealed.
Religious leaders, including Rev. John Maiaper of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Pastor Bello Danasabe of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), said repeated attacks have crippled farming—the community’s primary source of livelihood. Kutaho, once known for ginger farming, now struggles with reduced agricultural productivity due to insecurity.
An eyewitness, Hafsatu Gabriel, described how the attackers operated: “They were banging on doors and forcing people outside. Children were crying, and the bandits threatened to kill them.”
Call for Urgent Government Intervention
Residents say assistance has been minimal, with only limited support from local authorities. They are now calling on the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to: Secure the release of the abducted villagers, increase security presence in rural communities, improve telecommunications infrastructure.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Kaduna State Police Command nor state officials had issued an official response.
