176 Kwara Abductees In Danger As Terrorists Issue Chilling ‘Marry Or Die’ Threat

Families of 176 persons abducted by terrorists in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have renewed their appeal to the Federal and State governments to secure the release of their loved ones nearly six months after the abduction.

The appeal followed fresh allegations that the abductors threatened to force female captives into marriage and kill the remaining hostages if their demands were not met.

Speaking in an interview monitored on BBC Hausa Service, Abdul Ibrahim, a native of Kaiama, said the community had raised more than N155 million through crowdfunding as ransom, but alleged that the terrorists rejected the money.

“We have done everything within our means. The money was raised, yet our people have not been released. Their suffering continues, and families are living in agony,” Ibrahim said.

He said the abductors specifically warned that “beautiful” female captives would be forced into marriage while the others would be killed if demands were not met.

Ibrahim also said peaceful demonstrations by the community had failed to yield government intervention.

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Also speaking, Suleiman Bukata, Dan Sardaukin Kaiama, urged the Federal Government and security agencies to extend rescue operations to Kaiama, similar to the recent operation that freed abductees in Oyo State.

“The successful rescue in Oyo has rekindled hope. Our people deserve the same commitment and protection,” Bukata said, adding that every additional day in captivity exposes the victims to greater danger.

The 176 victims have remained in terrorists’ camps since their abduction, with families saying they have exhausted all options to secure their freedom.

Authorities are yet to issue a fresh update on rescue efforts in the area.