Kidnappers in Kaduna State have released Pastor Samson Ali, a 30-year-old cleric with the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), but have detained the individual who delivered his ransom, Yusuf Shehu Ambi.
Pastor Ali was abducted from his residence in Mararaba Aboro, Sanga Local Government Area, on April 8, 2025—just two weeks after his posting to the community.
The abductors initially demanded N100 million, though the final ransom amount paid remains undisclosed.
Sources said a joint security operation involving the Nigerian Army, police, and the Department of State Services was mobilized, but the pastor’s release was ultimately achieved through negotiation.
After receiving the ransom, the kidnappers unexpectedly held Ambi and are now demanding additional payment or concessions for his release.
“The kidnappers released Pastor Ali, but detained the ransom bearer, Yusuf Shehu Ambi, demanding more money or other concessions for his release,” a source familiar with the matter said.
The incident has triggered concern across social media, with many criticizing the worsening security situation in the state and urging government action.
“Kidnapping has become a profitable criminal enterprise in Nigeria.
It’s time the government took decisive steps to end it,” one citizen commented.
As of the time of this report, Kaduna State Police had not issued an official statement.
Efforts to reach the command’s Public Relations Officer, Mansir Hassan, were unsuccessful.
Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing to locate the kidnappers and secure Ambi’s safe return.
The ECWA community expressed gratitude for Pastor Ali’s release but voiced deep concern for Ambi’s safety.
“We thank God for Pastor Ali’s release, but we are praying for Yusuf’s safe return,” a church official said.