According to DailyTrust, the 56 farmers who were abducted in Adunu, Kwagana, and nearby communities in Paikoro LGA of Niger State are being held for ransom of N200 million by the kidnappers. The abductions occurred on March 14, 2023, and nearly 100 people were taken, but some managed to escape. The bandits reportedly called the residents on Tuesday, March 28, to demand the ransom, threatening to kill more people if it was not paid on time. One of the abductees had already been killed.
The residents of Adunu and surrounding areas have been neglected in terms of infrastructure and basic amenities, making it difficult for them to carry out their farming activities without fear of being kidnapped or killed by bandits. They are calling for the safe release of the 56 members of their community who were abducted. However, they are struggling to come up with the ransom money demanded by the kidnappers, and are calling on government officials to step in and help secure the release of their people.
The attacks in the area have become more frequent since the brutal killing of Rev Fr Isaac Achi in the attack on Catholic Church, Kafin-Koro. The police and military tactical teams are currently working to rescue the victims from captivity.