Terrorists Demand ₦250m, 20 Motorcycles for Release of 166 Abducted Worshippers in Kaduna

Suspected terrorists who abducted at least 166 worshippers in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have raised their ransom demand to ₦250 million and 20 motorcycles.

The village head of Kurmin Wali, Mr. Ishaku Dan’azumi, disclosed this on Tuesday while speaking about the worsening plight of the community, days after armed men carried out one of the largest mass abductions in recent times.

According to Dan’azumi, the attack occurred on January 18, 2026, when gunmen stormed Kurmin Wali village during a religious gathering. The assailants reportedly invaded three churches in the area and abducted men, women, and youths indiscriminately before fleeing into the surrounding forest.

He said the kidnappers initially made contact with the community with a lower demand but later increased it to ₦250 million alongside 20 motorcycles, a figure far beyond the capacity of the affected families.

Residents have appealed to the government and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts, warning that the community is traumatized and living in fear as the abductees remain in captivity.

#Kaduna #Insecurity #MassAbduction #NigeriaNews

Kaduna Priest’s Family Freed by Kidnappers Weeks After His Death in Captivity

The wife and daughter of the late Anglican priest, Venerable Edwin Achi, have regained their freedom after over two months in captivity in Kaduna State. The priest died while in the hands of his abductors in late 2025. Details of their release, including whether a ransom was paid, remain unclear. The Anglican Diocese of Kaduna had mourned Achi’s death, while prayers continued for the safe release of his remaining family members.

#KadunaKidnapping #AnglicanChurch #NigeriaNews

Kogi Kidnappers Release Five Women After ₦12 Million Ransom, Three Remain Captive

Five women abducted from Olle-Bunu community in Kabba/Bunu LGA, Kogi State, have been released after residents raised ₦12 million to meet kidnappers’ demands. Despite their release, three other victims remain in captivity, raising safety concerns. Security forces recently dismantled a network of bandits in the area after a fierce midnight gun battle, repelling attackers and forcing them to retreat into the forest. The incident underscores ongoing insecurity challenges in Kogi communities.

#KogiInsecurity #KidnappingNigeria #CommunitySafety

Kidnappers Release Five Women in Kogi After ₦12m Ransom, Hold Three Others

Five women abducted by kidnappers in a Kogi State community have been released after a ₦12 million ransom was paid. However, three other victims are still being held in captivity as efforts continue to secure their freedom. Residents say fear remains high in the area amid growing concerns over insecurity.

Full story in comments section 👇🏽

#KogiState #Kidnapping #NigeriaSecurity #BreakingNews

Kwara Kidnap Wahala: Terrorists Demand N20m, Threaten To Kill Trader If Family Misses Deadline

Terrorists who abducted a female trader in Omu-Aran, Irepodun LGA of Kwara State, have demanded a ransom of N20 million, threatening to kill her if the money is not paid before their deadline. An audio recording reveals the kidnappers rejecting the family’s offer of about N2.5–N3 million and mocking their pleas. The victim’s relatives say they have sold nearly all their belongings and are appealing to Nigerians for urgent help. The case adds to the growing wave of kidnappings in Kwara, where families are forced into debt to save loved ones.

#KwaraInsecurity #KidnappingCrisis #NigeriaNews

South Africa-Based Nigerian Rescued by Police After Escaping Kidnappers’ Den in Anambra

Operatives of a police-led joint security team in Anambra State have rescued a South Africa-based Nigerian man who was abducted on January 1, 2026, from his hometown in Oji River, Enugu State. The victim escaped from his captors’ hideout in Orumba South LGA during a routine patrol by the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Aguata, and was immediately taken into protective custody. The police are acting on intelligence from the victim to dismantle the criminal gang and arrest its members. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to proactive policing and urged residents to cooperate in the fight against kidnapping.

Kogi Police Repel Midnight Bandit Attack, Neutralize Several Criminals in Forest Operations

A joint security team led by the Nigeria Police Force has dismantled a network of bandits and kidnappers in Kogi State following a fierce midnight attack. Officers of the Force Intelligence Bureau–Intelligence Response Team (FIB/IRT), supported by sister agencies, engaged heavily armed criminals during a clearance patrol. Videos show explosions and gunfire as the police repelled the attackers, forcing them to retreat with casualties. The operation, led by CP Muhammad Sanusi Ahmed, included airstrikes and ground offensives, signaling renewed momentum to reclaim forests terrorized by bandits, with authorities commending the professionalism and commitment of the security forces.

Kogi Govt Demolishes Criminal Hideouts in Okene to Curb Rising Insecurity

Kogi State security operatives, backed by heavy equipment, have demolished buildings in Sambell community, Idoji, Okene, identified as criminal hideouts. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo approved the decisive operation after intelligence linked the area to kidnappers, armed robbers, and violent gangs terrorizing Okene, Ajaokuta, Lokoja, and nearby areas. Officials say dismantling these camps will make it harder for criminals to regroup, emphasizing zero tolerance for crime. Residents welcomed the move, calling it long overdue, while security operations continue across other hotspots.

#KogiSecurity #OkeneCrime #NigeriaNews

Suspected terrorists, believed to be bandits, have released 17 additional worshippers abducted from the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu, Kogi State, following sustained negotiations and the payment of ransom.

Naija News reports that the latest release came after weeks of engagement between the abductors, affected families and the Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association, which has been coordinating community efforts to secure the victims’ freedom.

According to Sahara Reporters, the Kogi State Government was not involved in the negotiations or the releases recorded so far.

The worshippers were abducted on Sunday, December 14, 2025, when armed men stormed the ECWA church during a church activity and whisked away more than 30 parishioners to an unknown location.

The incident sparked panic and outrage within the community and neighbouring areas.

Since the abduction, families of the victims, working with community leaders, have been engaged in prolonged and often difficult negotiations with the kidnappers in a bid to secure the release of their loved ones.

The first breakthrough came on January 1, 2026, when seven abducted worshippers were released after negotiations and the payment of a ransom reportedly put at ₦15 million.

However, the release was marred by tragedy as only four victims were freed alive, while three were confirmed dead – two reportedly died while in captivity, and one died after being rushed to the hospital following release.

Despite the tragic outcome, negotiations continued.

A local platform, Egbe Mekun, reported that three more victims were released on Monday, January 12.

This was followed by the release of 14 additional abductees on Tuesday, bringing the total number of worshippers freed so far to 24.

Community sources said 13 worshippers are still believed to be in the custody of the terrorists.

Oyo Police Rescue 60-Year-Old Kidnap Victim, Arrest Four Suspects

The Oyo State Police Command successfully rescued Isiaku Saidu, a 60-year-old man abducted in Iseyin, and Hussinat Abubakar, another kidnap victim in Itesiwaju LGA, without ransom payments.

Four suspected kidnappers, including Kari Ibrahim (22), Dure Jimoh (25), and Abubakar Sidi (55), were arrested, with one suspect neutralized during a gun duel. The police recovered six expended cartridges and urged the public to report anyone with gunshot injuries.

Police said the operations underscore the command’s determination to rescue victims promptly and discourage ransom payments, while investigations continue to apprehend other syndicate members.

Wahala oo! Three Family Members Kidnapped for Over One Month in Kogi, Bandits Demand ₦20 Million Ransom

Taki community, Kabba/Bunu LGA, Kogi State, don dey shake as three members of the same family – Eniojukan Samuel, Eniojukan Bunmi, and Ekomitan Mary – don dey with kidnappers for more than one month after dem drag dem along Ihale–Taki Road. According to sources, bandits dey demand ₦20 million before dem go release them. Residents dey beg for urgent security intervention as road don dey dangerous, and repeated attacks dey terrorize locals. This case join long list of kidnapping wahala for Okunland, and people dey question why bandits dey operate freely while authorities dey slow to respond. Earlier, another victim, Dada Babatege, pay ₦6 million but bandits still refuse to free am, dey demand extra ₦14 million plus two Bajaj motorcycles. Communities dey fear, dey call government make dem act fast before more lives scatter. Wahala heavy oo, security no dey reach those wey need am most.

AAU Students Wahala Don Burst! Take-It-Back Slams Police Over 52 Students’ Remand, Demands Freedom Now

Wahala don set for Edo State as the Take-It-Back Movement has condemned the arrest and remand of 52 Ambrose Alli University (AAU) students in Ekpoma, describing it as a dangerous abuse of power and a clear violation of human rights. In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Sanyaolu Juwon, the group said police carried out midnight raids on student hostels, storming rooms and arresting youths who had earlier protested against rising kidnappings and insecurity in the state. The movement said the action was aimed at intimidating students who exercised their constitutional right to peaceful protest. It noted that while kidnappers continue to operate freely, authorities have chosen to chase protesters instead of criminals. Take-It-Back also revealed that another resident was abducted just a day after the protest, exposing what it called the state’s failure to protect lives. The group demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the 52 students, withdrawal of all “bogus” charges, an end to harassment of protesters, a public apology from the government and police, and punishment for officers involved, warning that repression will only fuel more resistance.

Wahala Burst for Edo Oo! Ekpoma DPO Under Fire Over ‘Hausa Officer Who Won’t Listen’ Remark Amid Protest

Wahala don set for Edo State oo! A Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, is currently facing heavy backlash after a video surfaced online in which he allegedly made an ethnically charged statement while addressing protesters.

In the viral footage circulating on social media, the officer—whose identity is yet to be officially confirmed—is heard telling demonstrators:
“Don’t worry, I will leave Ekpoma, and they will bring a Hausa officer who won’t listen to anybody.”

The remark was reportedly made during a protest sparked by the killing of a young medical graduate, who was abducted and later murdered by kidnappers even after a ransom had been paid. The tragic incident had triggered anger and frustration among residents, who took to the streets to demand improved security and accountability.

However, instead of calming tensions, the DPO’s comment has now set social media on fire, with many Nigerians describing it as insensitive, divisive, and ethnically provocative.

Nigerians React: “This One No Pure At All”

Following the video’s circulation, reactions poured in from across the country, with many users condemning what they described as ethnic stereotyping and unprofessional conduct by a senior police officer.

One X user, Mr Gerald (@Mr_Gerrie01), wrote:

> “A very insensitive police officer.”



Another user, Everything Politics (@Everypolitics1), said:

> “This statement is troubling because it unfairly stereotypes and dehumanises Hausa people, implying they are incapable of empathy or dialogue. Ethnicity should never be used as a threat or a tool of intimidation.”



Ekong De Superstar (@EkongGodson) added:

> “Imagine what a supposed DPO is spewing. Protecting the lives of the people you swore to serve has now turned to ethnic tirade.”



Similarly, Mister Balo (@MubarakBalogun) described the comment as irresponsible, while Iamowolabi (@Iamowolabi01) urged the officer to focus on his duty:

> “Oga, do your job to protect people, no deh threaten them.”



“We Need Security, Not Ethnic Talk”

Other Nigerians acknowledged the emotional tension surrounding the protest but insisted that bringing ethnicity into the matter only worsens divisions.

Hephzibah Behulah (@HephzibaBehulah) wrote:

> “No one should have to live in fear of kidnapping every day, especially students just trying to get an education. That case where the young medical graduate was killed even after ransom was paid is tragic and shows how bad things have gotten.”



She added that while the DPO may have sounded frustrated, invoking ethnicity was unnecessary and harmful:

> “The protesters are right to demand better security. Threatening to replace one officer with another who ‘won’t listen’ doesn’t solve the real problem.”



Calls for Accountability Grow Louder

As the controversy continues, many Nigerians are now calling on the Edo State Police Command and the Nigeria Police Force headquarters to address the matter, investigate the officer’s conduct, and reaffirm their commitment to professionalism and unity.

For many observers, the incident reflects a deeper frustration with insecurity, police-community relations, and the handling of public anger over kidnappings and violent crime.

Wahala don burst oo — because when people dey cry for protection, na unity dem expect, not ethnic threats. Nigerians dey watch wetin go happen next.

Six Kidnappers Arrested in Nasarawa: How Did Nigerian Police and Vigilantes Raid Forest Hideouts to Rescue Abducted Victims Alive—Is This the Turning Point in the State’s Kidnapping Crisis?

Can community cooperation finally break the grip of kidnappers in Nasarawa State? In a coordinated security operation, the Nigerian Police arrested six suspected kidnappers and rescued three abducted victims during a joint raid carried out with local vigilante groups in Angara and Fadaman Bauna villages.

According to police authorities, the operation was triggered by a distress report filed on January 7, after armed men reportedly invaded Angara village, abducted two women, and later seized one man, abandoning an infant at the scene. Acting swiftly on the complaint, the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, ordered an immediate manhunt for those responsible.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, confirmed that officers from the Assakio Division in Lafia East Development Area, working alongside community vigilantes, tracked the suspects to forest hideouts in Angara and Fadaman Bauna. The joint raid led to the arrest of six suspects and the successful rescue of the victims alive.

Nansel disclosed that the rescued victims—two females and one male—were found unharmed, promptly given medical attention, and safely reunited with their families. He added that the suspects have confessed to their alleged crimes and have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further interrogation and prosecution.

Police authorities assured residents that the command remains committed to a sustained crackdown on criminal activities across the state. The commissioner emphasized that security forces will continue targeting kidnapping networks and forest hideouts to protect communities and restore confidence in public safety.

This development comes amid growing concerns over rising kidnappings in parts of central Nigeria, where rural communities have increasingly become targets for criminal gangs. Observers say the success of this operation highlights the importance of community intelligence, vigilante collaboration, and rapid police response in confronting organized crime.

But questions remain: Will this arrest disrupt wider kidnapping networks in Nasarawa? Can joint operations between police and local groups be sustained? And will the prosecution of the suspects send a strong enough message to deter future abductions? As residents welcome the rescue, many are watching closely to see whether this operation marks a lasting shift in the fight against kidnapping in the state.

Nigerian Army Raids Plateau Kidnappers’ Hideout, Neutralizes Suspects After Soldier Attack

Troops of the Nigerian Army under 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) have successfully raided a kidnappers’ hideout near Lantom Village, Kadarko District, Plateau State, neutralizing armed suspects following an attempted attack on a soldier during the operation.

According to a statement by Captain Joshua Atu John, Acting Military Information Officer, the raid was conducted on January 6, 2026, based on intelligence about the gang terrorizing local communities. The initial operation led to the arrest of four suspects and the seizure of weapons including a locally fabricated rifle, an axe, and a machete. Two gang members reportedly escaped with an AK-47 rifle.

The arrested suspects later revealed the location of a hidden cache of arms and ammunition. However, while guiding troops to the cache, they attempted to disarm a soldier in a bid to escape, and were decisively neutralized. Follow-up operations are ongoing to apprehend the remaining fugitives and recover the missing weapon.

Major General EF Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of JTF OPEP, commended the troops for their courage and professionalism, emphasizing the army’s commitment to restoring peace and protecting lives and property in Plateau State. Citizens were urged to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies.

This operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s proactive approach against kidnapping and armed robbery, demonstrating increased operational readiness and collaboration with local communities to maintain regional security.

Ondo Nursing Mother and Infant Abducted: Police Launch Manhunt for Suspected Kidnappers”

A nursing mother and her infant were abducted by suspected kidnappers in Ondo State, prompting a full-scale manhunt by police authorities. The incident occurred on Saturday night along the Supare/Ajegunle route in Akoko South West Local Government Area, according to the Ondo State Police Command.
SaharaReporters gathered that the woman, who is married to a well-known local furniture maker, was taken from her residence alongside her young child under circumstances that have left the community shocked and fearful.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the abduction and stated that intensive operations are underway to locate and safely rescue the victims. Security operatives have been strategically deployed throughout the area, ensuring continuous monitoring and rapid response to any leads.
As of now, no ransom demands have been officially confirmed. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities promising to keep the public informed and urging residents to report any suspicious activity. The police emphasized their commitment to protecting lives and property across Ondo State.
This case underscores the persistent threat of kidnappings in parts of Nigeria and highlights the proactive measures by law enforcement to respond swiftly to abduction incidents.

Edo Family Refutes Police Rescue Claim, Confirms Payment of Ransom for Abducted Twin Teenagers After Father’s Murder

The family of twin teenagers abducted in Edo State after the killing of their father, Andrew Ilabeshi, has disputed police claims that the victims were rescued unharmed. According to the family, the twins, Emmanuel and Emmanuella, both 16, were only released after a ransom was paid to their kidnappers.
Gunmen reportedly attacked the Ilabeshi family on December 11 at Kalabar Quarters, Afokpella, Etsako East LGA, leaving the father dead and abducting the twins. The Edo State Police Command previously stated that the twins were rescued by security operatives, but the family insists the release was negotiated through ransom payments.
The victims were reportedly traumatized by their ordeal, and the family criticized local security efforts, urging both state and federal governments to intensify measures against kidnappings. Community vigilance, according to the family, has proven insufficient in addressing the rise in violent abductions in the area.

Bandits Kill Kogi Man After Collecting Over ₦1 Million Ransom, Motorcycle and Phone in Yagba West Kidnapping Case

Gunmen have reportedly killed a man identified as Agba in Egbe community, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, despite collecting over ₦1 million in ransom, a Bajaj motorcycle, and a brand-new Samsung phone from the community. Agba was one of two emissaries sent to deliver the ransom for the release of a kidnapped resident, Mabe, who was abducted along the Egbe–Ogbe Road in December 2025. Although the kidnappers collected all demanded items and later freed Mabe, Agba was allegedly killed while in their custody after attempting to escape. The incident has heightened fears over rising insecurity in the area, following recent attacks in nearby communities that left residents dead and injured.

#KogiState #YagbaWest #Banditry #KidnappingInNigeria #Insecurity #BreakingNews #NigeriaNews #Ransom

Gunmen Kill One of Two Doctors Abducted on New Year’s Day in Edo State, Family Negotiates N100 Million Ransom

Gunmen have killed one of two medical doctors abducted on January 1, 2026, in Auchi, Edo State. The deceased, Tahir Abu Emhoye, a fresh graduate of Ambrose Alli University, was kidnapped alongside his elder brother, Abu Ibrahim Babatunde, who is undergoing housemanship at Edo University Teaching Hospital.

The brothers were abducted at their residence gate around 7:30 PM while returning from work. The kidnappers initially demanded a ₦200 million ransom, later reduced to ₦100 million after negotiations with the family.

Tahir’s body was discovered by security operatives near a river, confirmed by family members. The Edo State Police Command launched an immediate search, with investigations ongoing. The case highlights the rising insecurity and kidnapping incidents targeting professionals in the region.

Nigerian Troops Rescue Abducted Retired Colonel Ajanaku in Plateau State as Bandits Demand ₦200 Million Ransom

Nigerian Army troops have successfully rescued Colonel Ajanaku (rtd.), who was abducted by gunmen from his residence in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State in the early hours of January 5, 2026. The retired officer was reportedly kidnapped around 12:45 a.m. after armed men stormed his house opposite the Salvation Army Church along Rukuba Road.

Following the incident, soldiers from relevant military sectors were immediately mobilised and launched an intensive search-and-rescue operation, tracking the kidnappers through the Wildlife Park and combing nearby forests, caves, and rocky terrains believed to serve as criminal hideouts. Security expert Zagazola Makama disclosed that the abductors later contacted the victim’s wife, demanding a ₦200 million ransom and threatening to kill the officer if rescue efforts were not halted.

Despite the threats, security forces switched to covert operations, a strategy that proved effective. Colonel Ajanaku was rescued safely at about 5:30 p.m. the same day at the outskirts of the Rafiki axis in Bassa LGA. He is currently receiving medical attention at a military facility and is expected to be debriefed to provide intelligence that could aid follow-up operations.

Meanwhile, troops have continued combing surrounding forests and suspected hideouts in pursuit of the fleeing suspects, as security operations in the area remain ongoing. The successful rescue underscores the military’s commitment to tackling kidnapping and restoring security across Plateau State and beyond.