In response to the recent mass abduction of 177 worshippers in Kajuru Local Government Area, various groups have demanded immediate action from the Nigerian government, expressing outrage at authorities who initially denied the incident. Stakeholders, including the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), have called for public apologies and urgent measures to rescue the victims.
Despite assurances from the Inspector-General of Police acknowledging the abduction, local authorities had dismissed reports as rumors. ACF’s spokesperson, Prof. Tukur Muhammad Baba, criticized the government’s handling of the situation, emphasizing the need for better communication and coordination in security matters.
CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh condemned the initial dismissal of the abduction, highlighting that such negligence undermines public trust. He called for a more empathetic and thorough approach to crisis handling.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State visited the affected community, promising that efforts are in place to secure the abductees’ release and stressing the importance of protecting lives and property.
The Adara Development Association (ADA) has accused local officials of downplaying the incident, demanding accountability and an apology from the authorities for their mismanagement of the situation.
Security agencies are under increasing pressure to intensify rescue operations as the situation unfolds amidst concerns over the rising tide of insecurity and violence in the region.
