Kaduna community seeks help over N10m ransom for 11 abducted residents
Gadanaji Residents Appeal for Government Aid Amid Kidnapping Crisis
KADUNA, Nigeria — Residents of the Gadanaji community in the Kachia Local Government Area are urging government intervention after armed abductors demanded a ransom of 10 million naira for the release of 11 individuals taken hostage during a recent raid.
On April 9, 2026, heavily armed bandits invaded the community, resulting in the death of one resident and the abduction of 11 others, including women and children.
Mr. Adamu Tanko, the village head, stated that the community lacks the financial means to meet the ransom demand. He urged the kidnappers to reconsider the amount. “The affected individuals have been with their captors for a significant time,” he said. “We appeal to them to help us reduce the ransom needed for their freedom.”
Another community leader, Samaila Thomas, echoed the call for assistance from government authorities, security agencies, and compassionate citizens. He pointed out that families of the victims are unable to gather the requested sum. “We are farmers who struggle to earn enough throughout the year,” Thomas explained. “It is heart-wrenching to see our loved ones held captive while we are powerless to secure their release.”
Thomas also highlighted the growing unease within the community, noting that many residents have fled to neighboring villages out of fear of further attacks. He emphasized the constant anxiety among residents, stating that numerous families have abandoned Gadanaji due to concerns about additional incidents.
The situation reflects a broader trend of rising insecurity in rural areas across Kaduna State, where incidents of banditry and mass abductions have become increasingly common.
Efforts to reach the spokesperson for the Kaduna State Police Command, ASP Mansir Hassan, for comment on this situation were unsuccessful.
