Kogi State, January 3, 2026 – SUNTV Global
The Ayetoro-Kiri community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State is in mourning after three residents died following a recent bandit abduction, even as 30 others remain in captivity.
SaharaReporters gathered that although the community raised and paid a ransom through collective contributions, only seven of the kidnapped residents were released. Shockingly, three of them were already dead on arrival at medical facilities, while four others are currently hospitalized in critical condition.
The latest tragedy has reignited anger and despair across Ayetoro-Kiri and the broader Bunu land, with residents accusing authorities of neglect amid escalating insecurity. In a statement signed by community spokesperson David Ampitan, locals condemned what they describe as a failure of government to protect lives.
“After raising ransom contributions, only seven victims were released. Sadly, three were dead on arrival, and four others are fighting for their lives. Meanwhile, about thirty citizens remain in captivity,” the statement said.
The community further alleged that peaceful protests for security and justice have been met with repression rather than support. According to the statement, the Kogi State Government, through the Kabba-Bunu Local Government Chairman, tear-gassed and arrested residents protesting the worsening insecurity instead of taking decisive action against the kidnappers.
“It is ironic and unacceptable that a government entrusted with the protection of lives would criminalize peaceful protest while bandits roam freely, killing, kidnapping, and terrorizing law-abiding citizens,” the community added.
Residents expressed exhaustion over the cycle of violence and ransom payments. “Our people are tired of burying loved ones, selling properties to pay ransom, and living under perpetual fear while authorities remain indifferent,” the statement said.
They called on the Nigerian government and security agencies to urgently intervene, rescue those still in captivity, restore security, and hold accountable officials accused of ignoring or enabling the crisis. “The lives of Bunu people matter. Enough is enough,” the statement concluded.
Earlier, youths from Kabba-Bunu staged a peaceful protest, blocking major roads and chanting solidarity songs with placards reading, “Bunuland Bleeds” and “Why Should We Ask for Permission to Live?” The protest highlighted that dozens of communities in the area have been deserted due to repeated attacks, with residents forced to flee ancestral homes.
The demonstration was disrupted when police fired tear gas, dispersing protesters, but the youths insisted on continuing their demand for urgent government action to curb the violence and protect communities.
