- Kidnapped Schoolchildren Regain Freedom After 36 Days in Captivity
- Nine passengers were abducted during the attack
- Buhari called for continued prayers and support for other residents still being held by kidnappers in different communities across the state
There was relief and celebration in parts of Kaduna State as six schoolchildren, their driver and two other victims regained their freedom after spending 36 days in captivity following their abduction by suspected bandits.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the victims were kidnapped on April 26, 2026, when gunmen reportedly attacked a vehicle transporting schoolchildren from Akwando village to Kachia in Kachia Local Government Area of the state.
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Nine passengers were abducted during the attack, while a young girl was reportedly killed in the incident.
Confirming their release, spokesperson for the Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA), Manasseh Samuel, disclosed that the victims returned home on Sunday after being freed by their captors.
According to him, the victims trekked for about six hours through the bush before eventually reaching safety.
“The victims returned home on Sunday morning after trekking for about six hours through the bush,” Samuel said.
He expressed gratitude to individuals, groups and community members who offered prayers, support and assistance throughout the period of captivity.
A former media aide to the late Kaduna State Governor, Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, Reuben Buhari, also confirmed the development in a Facebook post, describing the victims’ return as a moment of joy for their families and community.
According to Buhari, the schoolchildren and other victims endured a traumatic experience during their 36 days in captivity and lost nearly an entire academic term.
He thanked God for preserving their lives and appreciated everyone who contributed in various ways toward securing their freedom.
Despite the successful release, Buhari called for continued prayers and support for other residents still being held by kidnappers in different communities across the state.
He noted that some residents abducted from Awon village have now spent 42 days in captivity, while others kidnapped from Ariko village have reportedly been held for 57 days.
The latest release comes amid ongoing concerns over insecurity and repeated attacks on schools and rural communities in parts of northern Nigeria.
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