The Middle-Belt Youth Forum is set to stage a massive protest today in Abuja, addressing the escalating kidnappings that have gripped the Nigerian capital.
Fueled by recent tragic incidents, including the brutal murders of several abductees, the youth-led demonstration aims to reach the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.
The protesting youths are calling for a decisive crackdown on kidnappers and bandits, urging the Nigerian government to designate them as terrorists.
The alarming situation has left nineteen residents still held captive, with the release of nine contingent on a staggering N700 million ransom.
The gravity of the crisis is exemplified by the brutal murders of four hostages, including Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar, a 400-level biological science student at Ahmadu Bello University, who was abducted alongside six siblings.
Among the victims are five sisters, including another high-achieving student, Nadherah, who remain in captivity after their father’s release.
The kidnappers initially demanded N60 million, a figure that has now doubled, with tragic consequences for hostages.
Tragically, Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar and 13-year-old Folashade Ariyo have already lost their lives, the latter killed due to ransom delays. Folashade’s mother and three siblings remain captive, adding to the anguish of families caught in the escalating crisis.