January 30, 2026 l Dalena Reporters
Kuyambana, Kaduna State, Nigeria — Nine villagers abducted by Jihadist Terrorist in Kuyambana community of Kauru Local Government Area remain in captivity despite payment of a ₦30 million ransom more than a month ago, the community’s traditional ruler has reported.
Mr. Zaka Paul, the village head, told journalists on Friday that armed bandits raided the community on October 23, 2025, firing sporadically before abducting ten residents. One woman managed to escape, but the remaining nine — including Paul’s younger brother — were taken into the bush where they are still being held.
The attackers initially demanded ₦100 million for the release of the hostages, but negotiations reduced the amount to ₦30 million, which was delivered on December 22, 2025, to the bandit commander known locally as “Yellow Mai 1 Million” near Kabudu Forest in Kachia Local Government Area.
Instead of releasing the captives after receiving the ransom, the bandits reportedly imposed fresh conditions, demanding an additional ₦20 million and seven motorbikes before agreeing to release the villagers.
Paul said the community and victims’ families had become financially exhausted, having sold off food produce and other belongings to raise the initial ransom payment. He appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, and local authorities for urgent intervention, warning that the captives’ lives are in danger.
The abducted villagers were identified by name, ranging in age from 21 to 53 years, and including at least three young adults who are orphans. They are reportedly being held around Idon in Kachia LGA, an area known as a bandit hideout.
Paul added that the matter has been reported to the police, military, traditional rulers, and local politicians, but no successful action has yet secured the release of the captives.
The situation reflects continued security challenges in parts of northwest Nigeria, where banditry and ransom-driven kidnappings have affected rural communities, often leading to prolonged negotiations and additional ransom demands even after initial payments.