The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has expressed concern over the continued captivity of dozens of people abducted in separate incidents in Southern Kaduna and Southern Borno, calling for urgent and transparent action from authorities.
In a statement signed by its President, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, and released in Kaduna, the forum said it was awaiting credible updates on 166 worshippers abducted from churches in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The group said no official information has been provided on their whereabouts more than two weeks after the incident.
The MBF also drew attention to the abduction of 15 women from Kilakasa village in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to the forum, the women were taken while fishing near a river in December 2025. The group said families reported the incident to security agencies, but communication with the abductors later ceased.The forum clarified that reports claiming 80 Kurmin Wali worshippers escaped from captivity were inaccurate, stating that those individuals had fled during the initial attack and were not abducted.
While commending the military for the recent rescue of abducted girls in another part of Borno State, the MBF urged similar urgency in addressing the remaining cases. It called on federal and state authorities to provide regular updates, intensify rescue efforts, and strengthen security in affected communities.
The forum emphasized the need for accountability, transparency, and improved protection of civilians in areas experiencing recurring attacks.
