By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Bandits launched a deadly attack on Majagada community in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State, leaving four people dead, three injured, and twelve others kidnapped.
The Akurmi Development Association (AKURDA) has strongly condemned the attack, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
According to reports, the attack began around midnight and lasted several hours, claiming the lives of Mr. Maitala Madaki, Mr. Iliya Kasada, Mr. Ishaya Luka, and Reverend Bitrus Sale, a respected ECWA pastor.
“The loss of these lives is a tragic reminder of the senseless violence that has plagued the region for far too long,” the association stated.
Twelve people were abducted during the attack, including women and children aged between 14 and 40. Those kidnapped include Mrs. Godiya Istifanus, Miss Happy Awaje, Miss Rachael Istifanus, Mrs. Agnes Yusuf, Mrs. Nchiye Haukuri, Mr. Divine Haukuri, Mr. Habila Digga, Mrs. Martha Ibrahim, Mrs. Comfort Yusuf, Mrs. Nahum Tanko, Mrs. Zakka Tanko, and Mrs. James Tanko. Their whereabouts remain unknown, leaving families in distress.
Three individuals—Mr. Bawa Samaila, Thomas Bawa, and Peter Maitala—sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment. Their conditions are being closely monitored.
AKURDA has called on security agencies and government authorities to act swiftly to secure the release of the abducted victims and prevent future attacks.
“It is imperative that the government takes concrete steps to address the root causes of this violence and ensures that the perpetrators are brought to justice,” the association said.
Drawing parallels to similar global incidents condemned by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and the UN Security Council, AKURDA emphasized the need for collective action against violence and insecurity.
AKURDA’s National President, Mr. Maigamo Yakubu, and National Public Relations Officer, Mr. Pius Kyauta Agaji, expressed solidarity with the affected families and the Majagada community.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and the suffering of the innocent people of Majagada. We pray for the safe release of the abducted individuals and the recovery of the injured. We also call on the government to take immediate action to prevent future attacks and ensure the security of our people,” they said.
They reiterated that the attack underscores the persistent insecurity in the region and urged the government and security agencies to take decisive action to safeguard lives and property.
“The AKURDA will continue to work tirelessly to support the affected families and advocate for the rights of the Akurmi people,” the statement concluded.
Attempts to reach the spokesperson of the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, for comments were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.