Residents of Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna have appealed to the federal and state governments to urgently intervene and secure the release of 37 worshippers abducted during Easter Sunday attacks on churches in the area.
According to community leaders, the abductors are demanding ₦1 billion and 35 motorcycles before releasing the victims who have remained in captivity for over 45 days.
The President of the Kuturmi Development Association, Joseph David Ariko, disclosed this while speaking on the situation affecting the community.
He explained that the community lacks the financial capacity to meet the ransom demand imposed by the bandits.
DAILY POST reports that armed attackers invaded three churches in Ariko community during Easter Sunday services, killing five worshippers before abducting 37 others.
The victims were reportedly taken from:
• St. Augustine Catholic Church
• ECWA Church
• Baptist Church
According to Ariko, the abductors have continued to contact the community regularly without reducing their demands.
“They call virtually every two days, demanding ₦1 billion and 35 motorcycles,” he said.
“They are not ready to reduce the amount of money they are demanding from poor farmers who cannot afford such money.”
The community leader said residents are now relying completely on government intervention and security agencies to rescue the kidnapped worshippers safely.
He added that the prolonged captivity has created fear and disrupted normal activities within the community.
According to him, many families are struggling emotionally and financially following the attacks while residents now live under constant fear.
The community also appealed to security agencies to intensify rescue operations and restore confidence among residents.
Leaders further called on humanitarian organisations, well-meaning Nigerians, and other stakeholders to support the community during the difficult period.
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