Families of Nigerians abducted by terrorists, bandits and other armed groups have expressed frustration over what they describe as prolonged government silence regarding the fate of their loved ones, according to The Punch on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
The report said relatives across Kwara, Borno, Zamfara, Kaduna, Ekiti, Osun, Sokoto and Benue states now rely on ransom calls, accounts from escapees and unverified information to determine whether victims are still alive.
Commenting on the February attack on Woro and nearby Nuku communities in Kwara State, public affairs analyst Olanrewaju Ishowo urged authorities to intensify rescue efforts.
“Over 170 days after the Woro tragedy, innocent women and children are still being held captive while their families continue to live in pain and uncertainty,” Ishowo said, calling on the Federal Government and the Kwara State Government to secure the victims’ release.
The report also highlighted the emotional and financial toll on affected families, with some raising millions of naira for ransom while others remain unable to meet kidnappers’ demands. Security experts called for greater psychological, humanitarian and medical support, as families appealed to President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to prioritise the safe return of those still in captivity.
