Families of at least 176 residents abducted by suspected terrorists in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have renewed their appeal for urgent government intervention after nearly six months of uncertainty.
They say time is running out, especially after the abductors allegedly threatened to force some female captives into marriage and kill the remaining hostages.
The disturbing claims have deepened fears across the affected communities. Moreover, relatives say every passing day increases the danger facing their loved ones.
The kidnap victims have remained in captivity despite months of negotiations and community support. Furthermore, family members insist they have exhausted almost every available option and are now relying on security agencies to rescue the victims.
Speaking during an interview on the BBC Hausa Service, Kaiama indigene Abdul Ibrahim said residents raised more than ₦155 million through community crowdfunding in an effort to free the captives.
According to Ibrahim, the families have also organised peaceful protests to draw attention to the crisis. Despite those efforts, he said no breakthrough has been achieved.
“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 urged the Federal Government, the Kwara State Government and security agencies to step up rescue operations before the situation becomes even worse.
Meanwhile, community leader Dan Sardaukin Kaiama and Suleiman Bukata also appealed for urgent action. They called on security agencies to carry out a rescue mission similar to the recent operation that secured the freedom of abductees in Oyo State.
According to Bukata, that successful operation has renewed hope among families in Kaiama.
He warned that every additional day in captivity exposes the victims to greater hardship and increased danger.
Meanwhile, Senator Adamu Aliero also commented on the wider security challenges facing northern Nigeria. He acknowledged the growing insecurity but argued that funding has continued to be provided for security operations.
According to the senator, the National Assembly has consistently approved requests from security agencies to support the fight against terrorism. He, however, maintained that the scale of the security challenge remains significant.
