Kidnappers have reportedly demanded N200 million ransom to release the 56 farmers abducted in Adunu, Kwagana and adjoining communities in Paikoro Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State.

The kidnappers invaded communities on March 14, 2023, and kidnapped almost 100 people but some later escaped.

Residents said bandits called on Tuesday, March 28, to inform them that one of the abductees had been killed while threatening to kill more people if ransom was not paid in time, DailyTrust reports.

A resident, Joshua Bawa, told the publication: “The people of Adunu and environs have over the years been left to their fate in terms of infrastructural development and provision of basic amenities. Our roads are dilapidated and school buildings have all collapsed, yet we cannot go about our farming activities peacefully for fear of being kidnapped or killed bandits.

“We want the release of 56 members of our community kidnapped on the March 14, 2023 in Adunu bandit.”

Another resident, John Elijah, said the people were finding it difficult to raise the money.

He said, “Where are we going to get this huge amount of money as ransom demanded bandits? Who will come to our rescue to secure the release of our people? Where is Mr President who promised to end the hardship we face in 2015? Where is Niger State governor whose primary duty is to ensure adequate security of lives of Nigerlites?”

Residents said attacks had become incessant since the attack on Catholic Church, Kafin-Koro, in which Rev Fr Isaac Achi was gruesomely burnt to death.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Niger, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, said efforts were ongoing in collaboration with the military tactical teams towards ensuring the rescue of the victims from captivity.