Three captives die in Nigeria as kidnapping crisis continues in Kaduna

Three individuals held by armed militants in Nigeria’s Kaduna state have died, according to reports from Christian Solidarity Worldwide. The victims were part of a group of 11 people abducted from the Awon area on April 20. Among the deceased is Joy Samuel, who died on August 28 after giving birth in captivity; her newborn also passed away. Additionally, Yusuf Bawa and his five-year-old son died due to severe illness and hunger. Seven captives remain in the forest hideout, which is reportedly the same location where 37 worshippers were held following Easter Sunday church attacks in the nearby Ariko community.

Reports indicate that the remaining captives are in critical condition, suffering from prolonged malnutrition and illness. The kidnappers, identified as Fulani militia, initially demanded a ransom of 300 million naira and 23 motorcycles. They have since reduced their demands to 9 million naira and four motorcycles. Mervyn Thomas, president of Christian Solidarity Worldwide, expressed condolences to the families and urged Nigerian authorities to implement a more effective security strategy to protect vulnerable communities and secure the release of those still in captivity.