Families cry out as terrorists reject N155m ransom for 176 Kwara abductees

Hope is fading for the families of 176 people abducted in Kwara State, Nigeria, as their captors allegedly rejected more than N155 million raised through community efforts. The abductions occurred nearly six months ago, and relatives say they have exhausted all avenues, including emptying savings and selling valuables, to secure the release of their loved ones. Community leaders expressed their despair in a video, stating that the rejection of the substantial ransom has prolonged the suffering of hundreds of families. They accused authorities of failing to end the prolonged captivity and voiced fears for the victims' lives, especially after receiving fresh threats from the gunmen. Some female captives are reportedly threatened with forced marriage. Abdul Ibrahim, speaking for the affected communities, stated that every option, from public protests to direct negotiations, has been explored without success. He made an emotional appeal to the Federal Government, the Kwara State Government, and security agencies, emphasizing that only decisive government intervention can save the abductees. The situation has left many families uncertain if their relatives will ever return home. Suleiman Bukata, the Dan Sardaukin Kaiama, urged security agencies to launch an intensive operation, drawing parallels with recent successful rescue operations in neighboring Oyo State. He stressed that no Nigerian community should endure such a tragedy alone and that the victims should not be forgotten after remaining in captivity for too long. The victims were taken on February 3 during an attack on Woro and neighboring Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area, which resulted in multiple fatalities.

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We contributed more than N155m because we believed it would bring our people home. Instead, the money was rejected and the suffering has continued.