Missing Easter Worshippers in Kaduna After 70 Days

The Kuturmi Unity Development Association has accused the Federal Government, Kaduna State Government, and security agencies of ignoring communities facing insecurity in the Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State. They said worshippers taken during an Easter Sunday church service in Ariko have been missing for over 70 days.

The association also shared that 11 residents kidnapped during an attack on the Awon community more than 50 days ago have not returned home.

In a statement signed by its president, J.D. Ariko, and publicity secretary, Manasseh Samuel, on Tuesday, the group expressed worry about what they called the government’s weak response to the suffering of affected communities.

Families of the kidnapped worshippers are still in pain, with no sign of a plan to free their loved ones. “It is now over 70 days since innocent Christian worshippers were abducted during an Easter Sunday church service at Ariko. 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,” the statement said.

The group said that the long captivity of the victims has increased fear among residents. It also raised questions about how much importance is given to the safety and welfare of people in the area.

KUDA claimed that ongoing attacks and insecurity have forced more than 100 communities across Kuturmi land and surrounding areas to flee, with thousands of residents leaving their homes.

Many of those displaced are living in makeshift camps without help from the government, lacking basic things like food, healthcare services, and education support. The association reported that many families are struggling with hunger, sickness, and serious hardship. Children have been pulled out of school, and vulnerable groups like pregnant women and the elderly are facing tough living conditions.

The group voiced that despite many pleas from affected communities, attacks have continued while many victims lack enough support. They called on the Federal Government, Kaduna State Government, Kachia Local Government Council, and security agencies to work harder to secure the immediate release of all abducted persons and increase security in vulnerable communities.

The association also pushed for emergency help for displaced persons and for the government to officially recognize displaced communities living in makeshift camps. They want more accountability from the authorities on actions being taken to handle the security and humanitarian crisis.

KUDA urged the government to begin building the approved Forward Operating Base at Maraba Barga Junction in Awon. They believe this would improve security responses and better protect residents. “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 concluded.