At least 38 kidnapped residents of Banga Village in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State have been killed by armed bandits, despite a ransom payment of over ₦50 million.
The victims, mostly men, were abducted over the past few months, according to Aminu Musa Banga, a local resident. He said the bandits initially demanded ₦1 million per person.
“These bandits killed 38 of our men and one woman while they were in their custody. We received this report from 16 of our people who were released by these bandits,” Banga said.
He added that the victims were slaughtered one after the other after the ransom was paid. “The bandits slaughtered them one by one after we paid a ransom of over ₦50 million,” he said.
Banga also said the attackers had taken full control of the village, forcing residents from nearby communities to flee. He urged both the Federal and Zamfara State governments to deploy military forces to restore peace.
The Chairman of Kaura Namoda Local Government, Hon. Mannir Mu’azu Haidara, confirmed the killings.
He said the few survivors released were in critical condition and were receiving treatment at a hospital in Kaura Namoda.
“The remaining victims were released with serious injuries caused by beatings while in captivity,” Haidara stated.
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He assured residents that efforts were ongoing to tackle the crisis, pledging continued cooperation with security agencies and the Zamfara State government.
“God willing, we will not be tired of continuing to take appropriate measures and working hand in hand with security agencies and the State Government under the leadership of Dr. Dauda Lawal, which is firmly committed to overcoming this problem of insecurity that plagues us day and night,” he added.
The House of Representatives member for Kaura Namoda/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency, Aminu Sani Jaji, also confirmed the killings.
Posting on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, Jaji wrote, “I’m deeply saddened by the recent attack on the people of Banga by bandits last night.
“I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”
He continued, “As your representative, I apologise for any perceived shortcomings in ensuring the safety and security of our community.
“I’m committed to working tirelessly with relevant authorities to address this issue, enhance security measures, and prevent future occurrences.”
Zamfara has remained one of Nigeria’s most insecure states, plagued by repeated attacks, mass abductions, and the imposition of illegal levies by armed groups.