Families of 176 residents abducted by suspected terrorists in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have renewed their appeal to the Federal Government, the Kwara State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue their loved ones, nearly six months after they were taken captive.

 

The renewed plea comes amid claims that the abductors have threatened to force some of the female captives into marriage while killing the remaining hostages.

 

Speaking during an interview on BBC Hausa, Abdul Ibrahim, a resident of Kaiama, said families and members of the affected communities had exhausted virtually every option in a bid to secure the victims’ freedom.

 

According to him, residents contributed more than ₦155 million through community fundraising to meet the kidnappers’ demands, but the money was allegedly rejected, leaving the captives in the custody of their abductors.

 

He urged both the Federal and Kwara State governments to step up rescue efforts, saying the prolonged captivity has left families devastated and uncertain about the fate of their loved ones.

 

Ibrahim added that peaceful demonstrations organised by members of the community had yet to attract the level of intervention they had hoped for.

 

Also speaking, the Dan Sardaukin Kaiama, Suleiman Bukata, called on security agencies to replicate the operation that recently secured the release of kidnapped victims in Oyo State. He said the successful rescue had given families in Kaiama renewed hope that their relatives could also regain their freedom.

 

Meanwhile, Senator Adamu Aliero described the worsening security situation in parts of northern Nigeria as a major concern. While noting that security agencies have continued to receive funding, he argued that the scale of the challenge requires stronger local responses.

 

The senator also reiterated his support for the establishment of state police, saying governors should be constitutionally empowered to deploy local policing structures capable of responding more effectively to security threats in their respective states.