The terrorists, who abducted more than 30 individuals in Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State, the hometown of the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, are now requesting a ransom of N500 million.
Ibrahim Maradun, a resident, informed the Daily Post that despite efforts, including reaching out to affluent individuals, raising the funds has been unsuccessful as there’s been a lack of willingness to contribute.
“We have wealthy people in the town, but they could not risk their wealth for the kidnapped victims to regain their freedom from the notorious terrorists,” he stated.
Maradun clarified that since the incident occurred, neither the State government nor the security agencies have issued any official statements.
“The State Government has neither visited the town to show sympathy, nor has the Governor delegated any government official to show concern,” he lamented.
Maradun added that the people of the area revolted against former Governor Matawalle through the ballot box owing to insecurity.
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“During the electioneering campaigns, Governor Dauda Lawal assured electorates that if voted into power, he would end banditry activities within 100 days in office.
“But now, the situation is getting worse as bandits’ operations continue to escalate unatated.
“Recently, armed terrorists ambushed the operatives of the State’s local security outfit, known as Community Protection Guard, CPG, killed three of them, injured many and made away with their arms,” he disclosed.
Maradun urged the authorities to step up efforts to secure the release of the kidnapped victims.
