KADUNA, NIGERIA: Residents of the Ariko community in the Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State have issued an urgent appeal to both the federal and state governments to secure the release of 37 worshippers abducted during an Easter Sunday attack.
The abductors are reportedly demanding a ransom of ₦1 billion and 35 motorcycles for the release of the hostages, who have now spent approximately 45 days in captivity.
Community Unable to Meet Demands
Speaking to journalists, Dr. Joseph David Ariko, President of the Kuturmi Development Association (KUDA), stated that the local community—composed primarily of agrarian families—lacks the financial capacity to meet the steep demands. According to Dr. Ariko, the captors have maintained regular communication but have refused to negotiate or reduce the initial ransom amount.
"They call virtually every two days, demanding ₦1 billion and 35 motorcycles," Dr. Ariko said. "They are not ready to reduce the amount of money they are demanding from poor farmers, who in reality cannot afford to raise such a sum."
Impact of the Easter Sunday Attack
The crisis began on Easter Sunday when armed bandits launched coordinated attacks on three local churches: St. Augustine Catholic Church, the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), and the Baptist Church. The assault resulted in the deaths of five worshippers before the attackers forcibly took 37 others into captivity.
The prolonged hostage situation has caused severe emotional and financial distress for the affected families. Community leaders note that the ongoing insecurity has severely disrupted local social and economic activities, leaving residents living in a constant state of apprehension.
Calls for Enhanced Security Operations
The Kuturmi Development Association has formally requested that security agencies intensify intelligence and rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the victims and to restore stability to the region.
Additionally, community representatives have called upon humanitarian organizations, stakeholders, and well-meaning citizens to provide support to the affected families during the ongoing crisis. As of the time of reporting, official statements from the Kaduna State Police Command and the state government regarding specific rescue efforts remain pending.