Outrage Grows Over Mass Kidnappings in Kaduna Communities

The kidnapping of more than 160 people from churches and surrounding communities in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State has sparked widespread condemnation, with the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership warning that the Kaduna kidnapping crisis now poses a grave threat to peace and stability across Northern Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the group said it was “shocked, pained, and outraged” by the incident, which reportedly occurred during a time of prayer and community gathering.

According to the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership, the victims include women, children, and elderly persons who had gathered for religious and social activities when they were abducted.

The group described the attack as part of a disturbing and escalating pattern of violence, noting that communities in Kaduna State and other parts of the North are increasingly living in fear.

“How long will our people continue to live under the shadow of kidnappings and violence?” the group asked.

AYAGL warned that the Kaduna kidnapping crisis reflects deeper failures in addressing banditry, mass abductions, and rural insecurity, especially in vulnerable communities where security presence remains limited.

The assembly called on key authorities to move beyond statements of concern and take firm, sustained action. Those urged to act include:

• The Governor of Kaduna State

• Other Northern state governors

• The Federal Government

• Security and intelligence agencies

According to the group, meaningful progress will only come through coordinated, intelligence-driven strategies that prioritize prevention, rapid response, and accountability.

The statement, signed by AYAGL President Ambassador Abdul Danbature, outlined specific demands aimed at reversing the Kaduna kidnapping crisis. These include:

• Immediate and transparent rescue operations for abducted victims

• Increased security presence and surveillance in rural and high-risk areas

• Stronger interstate security collaboration among Northern governors

• Clear public communication on steps being taken and results achieved

The assembly stressed that Northern Nigeria cannot achieve social or economic development while insecurity continues to claim lives and freedoms.

“The continued loss of innocent lives and freedom is unacceptable,” the statement read.

Despite the grim situation, AYAGL reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for peace, justice, and responsible leadership in the region. The group also expressed solidarity with the affected families and communities, acknowledging the deep trauma caused by mass abductions.

The Kaduna kidnapping crisis, they warned, should no longer be treated as routine news. It is a national emergency that demands urgency, coordination, and the political will to protect citizens wherever they live.