•As Gov Sani receives 172 freed victims, vows stronger security presence
Victims rescued from the recent mass abduction in Kurmin Wali community,Kajuru Local Government, Kaduna State, have recounted harrowing experiences of spending days in the forest, trekking long distances, sleeping by river banks and enduring physical abuse at the hands of their captors.
One of the victims, who spoke to journalists on the condition of anonymity, said the abductees were forced to trek for six days into the forest after they were taken from their community.
“We trekked from Kurmin Wali into the forest for six days. They kept us by a river bank and fed us with pap made of maize. They flogged us, including our children, especially when the children cried,” the victim said.
“We slept by the river bank and some of us did not take a bath for about two weeks. We thank the governor for rescuing us from the kidnappers.”
Governor Uba Sani disclosed that a total of 183 persons were abducted during the attack, all of whom have now regained their freedom through coordinated security operations.
Speaking yesterday , while receiving 172 of the rescued victims in Kaduna, the governor described the day as one of joy and gratitude, noting that the state government mobilised security agencies immediately after the incident.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, today is truly a day of joy for us,” Sani said.
“When this unfortunate incident happened, many of us were shocked. However, we immediately mobilised all security agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure the safe return of our people.”
According to him, 11 victims were released earlier and taken directly to hospital, while 83 were rescued a few days later. The remaining 89 were freed on Monday, bringing the total number of rescued victims to 183.
“Today, I can say without contradiction that all those abducted from Kurmin Wali have returned. We would not be sitting here if even one person was still missing,” he said.
Governor Sani expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support, saying that the President showed leadership and concern throughout the ordeal.
“I want to sincerely thank President Bola Tinubu, who stood with us from day one. He called me repeatedly, showing deep concern and leadership,” the governor said.
He also commended the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, as well as the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Police and other security agencies for their collaboration.
“For us in Kaduna State, even one person abducted is unacceptable. That is why we refused to politicise this incident. Our focus was clear, to ensure that every single person returned safely,” he said.
The governor revealed that the state had requested the establishment of a military base along the Kajuru–Kachia axis to address recurring security challenges in the area.
“I am happy to inform you that Mr. President has given his assurance that this request will be granted,” he added.
Sani also announced infrastructure projects for Kurmin Wali community, including the construction of an access road, a hospital and a skills acquisition centre.
“Rather than relocate the people, we believe it is better to protect them in their ancestral homes so they can continue their farming activities,” he said.
He disclosed that the rescued victims would not be returned home immediately, as they would undergo medical examinations and psychosocial support in Kaduna.
“Our medical team will ensure they are physically and mentally fit before returning home. We will also support their livelihoods, as many of them have lost income during this period,” the governor stated.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Kaduna State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Caleb Maaji, thanked God and the state government for the successful rescue of all the abducted persons.
“What happened to us in Kaduna was a test, and we have passed the test,” Maaji said.
“Not some of them have returned, all of them have returned. We are grateful to the governor, the security agencies and everyone who stood with us.”
He assured the state government of the continued support of the Christian community in Kaduna State.
