“Abducted Easter worshippers still missing after 70 days” — Kaduna community raises alarm

The Kuturmi Unity Development Association has accused the Federal Government, the Kaduna State Government, and security agencies of failing to adequately respond to worsening insecurity in Kachia Local Government Area, alleging that worshippers abducted during an Easter Sunday church service in Ariko remain in captivity more than 70 days later.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its President, J.D. Ariko, and Publicity Secretary, Manasseh Samuel, the association said families of the victims have continued to endure uncertainty and emotional distress.

“It is now over 70 days since innocent Christian worshippers were abducted during an Easter Sunday church service at Ariko,” the statement said.

“Families whose loved ones were taken have been left to suffer in silence, with little evidence of a coordinated and determined effort by government authorities to secure their release.”

Community says captives remain missing

The association further disclosed that 11 residents abducted during a separate attack on the Awon community more than 50 days ago have also not regained freedom.

According to the group, prolonged captivity of victims has heightened fear and anxiety across affected communities and raised concerns about the level of attention being given to security challenges in the area.

KUDA alleged that persistent attacks and insecurity have displaced more than 100 communities across Kuturmi land and surrounding areas.

The group claimed thousands of residents have been forced out of their ancestral homes and are currently living in informal settlements without official camps or sufficient government support.

According to the statement, displaced families are facing shortages of food, healthcare, education, and other basic services.

The association added that many children have dropped out of school while vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and elderly residents, are experiencing severe hardship.

Calls for government action

The group called on the Federal Government, Kaduna State authorities, the Kachia Local Government Council, and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and improve protection for vulnerable communities.

It also demanded emergency humanitarian assistance for displaced residents, official recognition for affected settlements, and greater transparency on ongoing security operations.

Additionally, the association urged authorities to commence construction of the approved Forward Operating Base at Maraba Barga Junction in Awon, which it believes would improve response capacity and strengthen local security.

“Our people are not second-class citizens. They deserve the same protection, concern, and dignity accorded to citizens in other parts of the country,” the statement added.