Kaguru 177 worshippers abduction: Terrorists demand N250m, 20 motorcycles as ransom

Kaduna gov, Sani

Days after the mass abduction, the Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, has disclosed that the terrorists, who abducted about 177 worshippers in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have demanded N250 million and 20 motorcycles as ransom for their release. This came as the gun-wielding terrorists, who abducted a pregnant woman, a nursing mother and three others in Erinmope-Ekiti, Moba Local Government Area of Ekiti State, have demanded N100 million ransom from their families.

Speaking with journalists on the phone, Monday night, Dan’azumi said the demand followed the mass abduction, which occurred on January 17, 2026, during church services in the community.

He said the attack affected three churches, Cherubim and Seraphim Church 1 and 2, and Evangelical Church Winning All, ECWA.

According to the traditional ruler, the terrorists had earlier accused the Kurmin Wali community of stealing 17 motorcycles, which they allegedly lost during military operations in Kajuru council.

“The terrorists called and said the Kurmin Wali community must pay N250 million and provide 20 motorcycles before they will release the kidnapped worshippers,” Dan’azumi said.

He added that the attackers also accused members of the community of removing parts from the remaining motorcycles.

More than 100 worshippers were still being held captive nine days after the abduction, raising concerns among residents and religious leaders in the area.

Meanwhile, attempts to get a reaction from the Kaduna State Police Command proved unsuccessful.

N100m for abducted pregnant woman, nursing mother in Ekiti

Narrating their ordeals, the head of the family, Muhammad Okanlawon (alias Elebenla) said gunmen stormed their residence in Erinmope-Ekiti, weekend and abducted five members of his household.