Families of at least 176 people abducted in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have renewed calls for urgent government intervention after nearly six months in captivity.
The appeal follows reports that the abductors threatened to force “beautiful” female captives into marriage while killing the remaining hostages if their demands are not met.
Speaking on BBC Hausa, a community member, Abdul Ibrahim, said families had exhausted all efforts to secure the victims’ release, including raising over ₦155 million through community contributions. However, the ransom was reportedly rejected by the terrorists.
“We have done everything within our means. The money was raised, yet our people have not been released. Their suffering continues, and families are living in agony,” he said.
Community leaders, including the Dan Sardaukin Kaiama and Suleiman Bukata, urged the Federal Government and security agencies to replicate recent rescue operations carried out in Oyo State in order to free the Kaiama victims.
Bukata noted that the successful rescue in Oyo had given families renewed hope, stressing that those still in captivity face increasing danger each day.
Despite peaceful protests and repeated appeals, residents say there has been little progress, leaving families in prolonged distress.
Meanwhile, Senator Adamu Aliero acknowledged the worsening insecurity in northern Nigeria but said funding was not the primary issue. According to him, the National Assembly has consistently approved security budgets, and the ongoing crisis reflects the complexity of the threat.
He reiterated calls for the establishment of state police, arguing that empowering governors with local policing structures could improve response to security challenges.
The abducted victims remain in terrorists’ camps as families continue to await decisive action from authorities.
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