Residents of communities in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State have accused government authorities and security agencies of failing to adequately address the worsening security situation in the area, lamenting that worshippers abducted during an Easter Sunday church service remain in captivity more than 70 days after their abduction.
The concern was raised by the Kuturmi Unity Development Association, which also disclosed that 11 residents kidnapped during an attack on the Awon community over 50 days ago have yet to regain their freedom.
In a statement jointly signed by the association’s President, J.D. Ariko, and Publicity Secretary, Manasseh Samuel, the group expressed frustration over what it described as an insufficient response from authorities to the plight of affected communities.
According to the association, relatives of the abducted worshippers have continued to endure emotional distress and uncertainty, with little indication of a coordinated rescue effort.
The group noted that the victims were taken during an Easter Sunday church service in Ariko and have remained in captivity since then.
“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 determined effort by government authorities to secure their release,” the statement said.
The association added that the prolonged captivity of the victims had heightened fear and anxiety among residents, while raising concerns about the level of attention being given to the security and welfare of citizens in the area.
It further alleged that persistent attacks by armed groups had forced the displacement of more than 100 communities across Kuturmi land and neighbouring settlements, leaving thousands of residents homeless.
According to the group, many displaced persons are currently taking shelter in informal settlements where they lack access to government-supported camps, adequate relief materials, healthcare services, food supplies and educational support.
The association said the humanitarian situation had worsened, with many families struggling with hunger, illness and severe hardship, while children had been forced out of school.
It added that vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and the elderly, were facing particularly difficult conditions.
The group lamented that despite repeated appeals for intervention, attacks had persisted and many victims remained without adequate support.
It therefore urged the Federal Government, Kaduna State Government, Kachia Local Government Council and security agencies to intensify efforts toward securing the immediate release of all abducted persons and strengthening security in vulnerable communities.
The association also called for emergency humanitarian assistance for displaced residents, official recognition of displaced communities currently residing in informal settlements and greater transparency from relevant authorities on measures being taken to tackle the security and humanitarian challenges.
Additionally, it appealed to the government to commence the construction of the approved Forward Operating Base at Maraba Barga Junction in Awon, saying the facility would enhance security response and improve protection for 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 association stated.