Fear and devastation have gripped Abuja following the brutal killing of two more kidnap victims from Sagwari Estate Layout in Dutse. These callous acts come amidst a shocking ransom increase to N700 million, leaving families desperate and pleading for action.
Ten residents were abducted on January 7th, and the kidnappers, operating in Bwari, have resorted to gruesome tactics to pressure families. Initially demanding N60 million per person, they have now doubled the amount to a staggering N100 million each. Locals believe the recent killings were meant to expedite ransom payments.
Among the victims tragically murdered is a young secondary school student, Folorunsho Ariyo. This news adds to the grief and outrage already consuming the community. Just days ago, on Friday, the kidnappers took the life of another abductee, Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar, with the aim of forcing her family’s hand.
In a glimmer of hope, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Ali Pantami, reportedly raised N50 million to aid the Al-Kadriyar family in securing the release of their remaining five daughters. However, with the escalating ransom demands and continued violence, fear and frustration have reached a boiling point.
Residents of Sagwari Estate, fed up with perceived inaction from authorities, have planned a massive protest against the government and security agencies. This act of defiance, initially scheduled for today, has been rescheduled for tomorrow due to the Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
This harrowing situation, unfolding in the heart of Nigeria’s capital, demands immediate and decisive action. The safety and well-being of innocent citizens must be prioritized, and those responsible for these heinous crimes must be brought to justice.
Leadership