Bandits in Kaduna have demanded a staggering ransom of N40 trillion, along with 11 Hilux vans and 150 motorcycles, for the release of 16 residents abducted from the Gonin Gora area. The abduction occurred on February 28, following an attack on the community, which is located in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna metropolis. This demand comes amidst heightened security concerns in the state, particularly following the recent abduction of 287 schoolchildren in Kuriga, another community in Chikun.
John Yusuf, a community leader in Gonin Gora, disclosed the ransom demand during a telephone interview with The Nation Newspaper. He expressed the community's inability to meet such an exorbitant demand, stating, "Even if we sell the entire community, we cannot raise N40 trillion." The bandits have reportedly invaded the community twice within a week, with three people abducted in the first attack and 13 in the second, bringing the total number of captives to 16.
Yusuf highlighted the vulnerability of the community due to its proximity to extensive bushes, providing cover for the bandits to carry out their criminal activities. He called on the government to establish a military base behind the community to counter the bandits' incursions effectively. The community's plea reflects the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect residents and prevent further abductions in the area.
