Seven worshippers abducted from the ECWA Church in Ayetoro-Kiri, Bunu District of Kogi State, have been released by their captors after the payment of a ₦15 million ransom, but three of the victims were already dead upon release.
Four others are currently battling for their lives in critical condition at medical facilities, while about 30 residents remain in captivity, their fate uncertain.
This was disclosed in a press statement issued on Saturday by the community spokesperson, Mr. David Ampitan, and made available to journalists in Lokoja.
According to the statement, the ransom was raised through painful communal contributions following the abduction of scores of residents by suspected bandits.
“After the ransom payment, only seven victims were released. Sadly, three of them were dead on arrival, while four others are currently battling for their lives in critical condition at medical facilities. About thirty innocent citizens remain in captivity,” the statement read.
The community condemned what it described as the failure of security governance in the area, alleging that instead of pursuing the perpetrators, the Kogi State Government, acting through the Chairman of Kabba-Bunu Local Government, Mr. Zaccheus Dare Micheal, responded by tear-gassing and arresting peaceful protesters.
The protesters were said to have been demanding improved security, justice, and the rescue of their abducted relatives.
“It is ironic and unacceptable that a government entrusted with protecting lives and property would criminalise peaceful protest while bandits roam freely, killing and kidnapping law-abiding citizens,” the statement added.
Expressing deep frustration, the community said residents were tired of burying loved ones, selling personal property to pay ransom, and living in constant fear amid what they described as official indifference.
The community appealed to the Federal Government, security agencies, and relevant authorities to intervene urgently in Ayetoro-Kiri and the wider Bunu district.
“Immediate action must be taken to rescue those still in captivity, restore security, and hold accountable all officials who enable or ignore this humanitarian tragedy,” the statement said.
“The lives of the Bunu people matter. Enough is enough.”
Ayetoro-Kiri Kidnap: 7 Freed After N15m Ransom, Three Dead, 30 Held
