KADUNA, NIGERIA – Thirty-seven residents of Ariko Community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State have denied reports claiming they were released after the payment of a ₦1 billion ransom and the provision of 30 Honda motorcycles to their abductors, insisting they remain in captivity more than two months after their kidnapping.
The victims made the claim in a video recorded in Hausa language, which reportedly featured both the captives and armed men holding them. The footage challenges earlier reports suggesting that negotiations had secured their freedom.
In the video, one of the armed men questioned the captives about reports that they had already been released.
When asked about their current location, one of the victims responded that they were still being held in the bush. The captives also stated that they had remained in captivity since April.
The abductees further rejected claims that a ransom of ₦1 billion and 30 Honda motorcycles had been exchanged for their freedom.
According to one of the victims, reports of their release were false, adding that they remain in captivity under difficult conditions.
“We are still here in the bush, suffering, and people are dying,” the captive said in the footage.
The victims disclosed that they have now spent 74 days in captivity and alleged that conditions in the camp have worsened, with some abductees reportedly dying from starvation and harsh living conditions.
Their account directly contradicts widespread reports that they had regained their freedom following negotiations with the kidnappers.
The residents were abducted during an attack on Ariko Community on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, when armed terrorists reportedly invaded worship centres, including the First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, during church services.
At least seven persons were reportedly killed during the attack, while several worshippers and residents were abducted and taken away by the attackers.
The latest video has renewed concerns about the welfare and safety of the victims and raised questions regarding earlier reports of their alleged release.
Peoplesmind reports that authorities are yet to officially respond to the claims made by the captives in the video, as families and community members continue to hope for their safe return.
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